Chronic stress is a problem that starts in your head. That’s why changing your way of thinking is the most effective way to free yourself from stress. Often, it is sufficient to see the world from a different angle to change it. But how is that possible? – Not at all easy, but I can offer a few tips:.
Let it be
Life is full of unforeseen changes . Surprises always happen, no matter how much one plans and anticipates the future. 2,500 years ago, Buddha spoke of the concept of Anitya , the principle of impermanence or transience.
What does it mean? That nothing lasts, that everything that exists changes. Relationships end, flowers fade, babies are born, and even stars go out. All things are transitory and holding on to them only brings suffering. As Paul McCartney would say, let it be .
Put things into perspective
We are the protagonists of our own movie and, therefore, we exaggerate each of our problems, even the smallest ones.
Before you go storming away clouded by stress and anxiety, ask yourself if what you are so anxious about will still matter to you in 5 years. If you adopt this point of view, you will see that very few things are really serious and worth our sleepless nights.
Talk about what worries you
The therapeutic benefits of talking are undeniable. You have to get it out of your body to release stress. And that is achieved by verbalizing it.
You can consult a psychologist, call a friend or simply talk out loud to yourself. The important thing is to put into words what is happening to you: what worries you, what emotions it generates in you and what alternatives you have.
Dynamics to release stress
Stress is a problem that originates in the mind and has consequences for the body. Therefore, it is advisable to attack it from both fronts . If you want to get rid of stress and you don’t know how to do it, these three dynamics or activities will be very useful.
Meditate while washing the dishes
The next time you wash the dishes, take it as an opportunity to change your life . Household tasks such as sweeping the floor, washing dishes or tending to the garden can be transformed into informal contemplative practices, a method of meditation to focus our attention on the present moment.
According to research from the University of Florida (United States), washing dishes with full awareness reduces nervousness by 27% . It involves concentrating on the smell of soap, the warmth of the water and the feel of the dishes.
Stress-releasing exercises
Regular aerobic exercise upgrades the body and the brain. It is a natural medicine for anxiety, depression, and tension. This is what all the athletes feel and has been confirmed by scores of clinical tests.
On the other hand, exercise has “emotional” benefits . Increasing strength and endurance boosts our self-esteem . And let’s not forget that exercise and sports offer us the opportunity to forget our problems and make new friends .
Sports
One of the best leisure activities to get rid of stress is doing sport. Do not worry; you do not have to be engaged in extreme sports. Just do anything you like and makes you sweat. It could be tennis, football, running , or whatever suits you!
Exercise at home
If sports such as tennis, football, or going out on the weekend don’t float your boat, you can always exercise at home. Speeding up your heart rate and toning your muscles doesn’t require a gym or expensive equipment. With two square meters, you have no excuses.
Games to release stress
Life is not only about work and obligations. There is also leisure . However, many people find it difficult to enjoy moments of relaxation.
They feel guilty about “wasting time” or they never manage to disconnect from their problems. If you want to learn how to free yourself from stress , the following games have a lot to teach you.
Chess
Chess is a classic board game. It will demand your full attention , so it is a great ally to put aside your problems for a moment. In addition, it is a strategy game in which you can delve deeply, making it an inexhaustible pastime.
But chess is just an idea. You can sign up for a free photography course , or spend some time with books and enjoy the benefits of reading . What matters is that you do something you like and that has no other purpose than the simple pleasure of doing it. You deserve it!
Puzzle
If you are one of those people who can’t sit around doing anything, the best remedy is putting together a puzzle . Unlike other activities like reading and playing chess, puzzles don’t require too much intellectual effort ( unless it has 42,000 pieces ).
Putting together puzzles is an activity that is done for the simple pleasure of doing it. However, as you fit piece after piece together, you will do much more than just shape a puzzle: you will learn that life is meant to be enjoyed .
Video games to relieve stress
If chess and puzzles seem like hobbies for the elderly, you can always turn to video games (although we remind you that the first video game is more than 60 years old). This type of entertainment has the advantage of being super practical .
On the other hand, video games offer endless options . You can de-stress by slaughtering murderous aliens in games like DOOM , or fulfill your trucking fantasy and relax by hauling cargo along deserted roads across the United States ( no joke ).
Music to release stress
Music is capable of capturing our attention and distracting us . In other words, it can help the mind stop thinking about problems. Numerous studies have shown that listening to and playing music has therapeutic benefits . Let’s explore them.
Listen to music to relax
Did you know that the Royal College of Music in London has shown that attending a concert reduces cortisol levels ? If you feel like stress has taken over your life, try sitting back and listening to our selection of relaxing music .
Sing or learn to play an instrument
On the other hand, the Royal College of Music has shown that playing music has an impact on mental health . It is a practice that reduces depression and anxiety. Maybe it is time to dust off the guitar or do karaoke.