You're about to retire and you want to enjoy it. What are some ways to manage stress?

1 Plan ahead

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to plan ahead for your retirement. Think about your goals, needs, and preferences for this stage of your life. How do you want to spend your time, money, and energy? What kind of lifestyle do you want to have? What are the potential sources of stress or uncertainty that you need to prepare for? For example, you may want to create a budget, review your health insurance, update your will, or relocate to a different place. Planning ahead can help you avoid unwanted surprises and feel more confident and in control of your future.

2 Stay active

Physical activity is not only good for your body, but also for your mind. It can help you lower your blood pressure, improve your mood, boost your immune system, and prevent or manage chronic conditions. It can also help you cope with stress by releasing endorphins, reducing tension, and improving your sleep quality. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as walking, biking, or swimming. You can also add some strength, balance, and flexibility exercises to your routine. Find activities that you enjoy and that suit your abilities and preferences. You can also join a group or a class to make it more fun and social.

4 Stay connected

Social support is essential for your well-being and happiness. It can help you cope with stress by providing emotional, practical, and informational assistance. It can also help you feel less lonely, isolated, or depressed. Make an effort to stay connected with your family, friends, and community. You can also make new friends by joining clubs, groups, or organizations that share your interests or values. You can also use technology, such as phone calls, video chats, or social media, to keep in touch with your loved ones who live far away.

5 Practice relaxation

Relaxation techniques are proven ways to reduce stress and promote calmness. They can help you lower your heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension, as well as improve your mood, concentration, and sleep. There are many relaxation techniques that you can try, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery. Find a quiet and comfortable place, and practice for at least 10 minutes a day. You can also use apps, videos, or audio recordings to guide you through the process.

6 Seek help

Sometimes, stress can be overwhelming and interfere with your daily functioning and enjoyment of life. If you feel that you are struggling to cope with stress, or if you experience symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, don't hesitate to seek professional help. You can talk to your doctor, a counselor, a therapist, or a coach who can help you identify the causes of your stress, provide support and guidance , and suggest appropriate treatments or interventions. You can also reach out to helplines, support groups, or online resources that can offer you information and assistance.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?