Linda Hall
According to a study commissioned by the National Lottery carried out by the University of Nottingham, it’s the simple pleasures in life that make us most happy, such as a bar of chocolate, a long soak in the bath, a snooze after lunch, a stroll in the park or enjoying a hobby. Dr Richard Tunney of the University’s School of Psychology said “Modern-day pressures take their toll on everyday happiness. It appears that spending time relaxing is the secret to a happy life. Cost-free pleasures are the ones that make the difference – even when you can afford anything you want”
It’s also the simple things we do every day that can make a huge difference to how we manage stress. Here are my top ten stress busters:
Top ten simple stress management tips
Every so often throughout your day take a moment or two to do one of the following:
- Pause, to ‘take a breather’ from what you are doing
- Make time for a simple pleasure, no matter how small, (ie: having a stretch, making a cup of tea or looking out of the window)
- Step back from things to ‘get the bigger picture’
- Allow everything around you to sit back so you gain some space for yourself
- Turn that inner ‘intensity dial’ down – less is more
- Notice if you are holding on to your breath – and breathe out!
- Allow your shoulders to soften and lower, this will help you breathe more freely
- Ground yourself by feeling the surface beneath your feet, this will steady and centre you
- Come away from your thoughts and become aware of your surroundings (switching from thinking mode to sensing mode acts as a natural de-stressor)
- Focus on one thing at a time (you’ll enjoy your activity more as well as being more efficient
Also, remember to:
- Maintain your blood sugar levels by taking regular, balanced meals, to regulate energy levels and prevent mood swings
- Avoid or cut down on drinks that contain high quantities of sugar or caffeine
- Drink plenty of water – keeping well hydrated makes it easier for the body to cope with stress
- Write down ‘to do’ lists rather than keeping them all in your head (this helps prioritise and lessens mind clutter)
- Monitor the amount of time you spend on your computer, iPad or mobile phone, working on-line before you go to bed is like having a double espresso coffee!
- Finally, before you go to sleep make a conscious decision to let go of the stuff of the day rather than taking it to bed (a warm bath, calming herbal drink, listening to soothing music or a guided relaxation CD often helps)
© Linda Hall
