Anxiety and stress are everyday experiences that all of us face daily. Recent studies show that 70 percent of adults in the United States say they feel stress or anxiety every day. This study was done before the COVID-19. Over the past two years, our society has been forced to deal with the coronavirus’s effects. So, as the world continues to deal with the after-effects of COVID-19, we can take some simple actions to help us navigate this crisis and any crisis that comes with daily living. Here are eight simple ways to relieve stress and anxiety.
- Exercise Daily: Developing a consistent routine of daily exercise is one of the best things you can do to combat stress. It might seem like a contradiction, but physical stress on the body through regular exercise can actually reduce mental stress. People who exercise regularly are less likely to become overwhelmed by stress and anxiety than those who do not exercise.
- Consider Supplements: There are many supplements available in the marketplace that promote stress and anxiety reduction. Some of these include glycine, melatonin, B-complex vitamins, and Kava. Also, CBD has become very popular. I’ve been taking it for over two years, which has helped me tremendously. It’s important to note that some supplements can interact with medications or have side effects, so it’s advisable to consult with a physician if you have a medical condition.
- Reduce Caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant found in many soft drinks, coffee, tea, and energy drinks. High doses can increase anxiety. Those who rely on energy drinks to give them a boost throughout the day may want to consider a better alternative. I recently wrote about the benefits of Green Vibrance as it relates to boosting energy. If you notice that caffeine is making you jittery or anxious, you might want to consider cutting back. Some studies show that coffee, in moderation, can offer some health benefits. Every person has different levels of toleration, so you must monitor yours. I enjoy my two to three cups in the morning, but for myself, that’s it—no caffeine after about 11:00 a.m.
- Cultivate Relationships: In Genesis 2:18, the first thing God said that wasn’t good wasn’t sin; it was isolation. “It is not good for man to be alone.” I wonder what history will say 20 years from now about the public health response to COVID-19. The closing of schools and businesses and forcing people into isolation did more harm than good. The demand for mental health resources continues to increase, and it’s no doubt due to the after-effects of the coronavirus response. A healthy life includes healthy relationships. God did not intend for humans to do life alone.
- Limit Your Media Intake: A successful plan for managing stress must include careful monitoring of your media intake. If you are looking for something to lift your spirits, you won’t find it in the news. It might also be a good idea to reduce your Facebook and Twitter consumption and implement a firm policy of social media distancing from those who love to post negativity. Not every friend in our lives is a cheerful social media friend.
- Listen to Music: Listening to music can have a relaxing effect on the body. My favorites include Jim Brickman and Kenny G. Slow-paced instrumental music can facilitate a relaxation response and help lower blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormones. It works for me.
- Find Your Happy Place: Cruise ships, resorts, and theme parks create happy places for travelers worldwide, and they also employ millions of people. I can’t wait to get back on a cruise ship again. That’s my happy place.
- Pray More, Complain Less: We’ve seen many complaints via social media. I’ve done a little myself. However, our best hope for managing stress is casting our cares upon the one who can give us the help and hope we need. In 1 Peter 5: 6-7, we read, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. I believe that in this season of this pandemic, we will also see a spiritual revival. God’s timing is always right on time.
I hope you found these tips helpful. Please like, comment, and share. What are some of your favorite strategies to reduce stress and anxiety? Feel free to share.
Take care, and God bless!
Bill
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