10 Ways to reduce high stress levels and feel good

I have worked with many clients who have turned to alcohol or binge eating as a way to manage stress levels.

I have also struggled to manage my own stress over the years and made a lot of mistakes along the way.

However, these coping mechanisms can be harmful to our mental health and ultimately lead to even more stress in the long run. That's why it's important to focus on self-care and finding healthier ways to reduce stress.

Here are 10 ways to reduce stress levels and promote self-care:

Get enough sleep - Lack of sleep can contribute to stress and make it harder to manage. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night and establish a bedtime routine that helps you wind down and prepare for sleep.

Get moving - Training is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga, or a workout at home, find an activity that you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine.

Take a relaxing bath - A warm bath with essential oils or Epsom salt can help you relax and release tension in your muscles. This can also help you sleep better and feel more rested.

Journal your thoughts - Writing down your thoughts and feelings can be a powerful way to reduce stress and gain clarity. You can also use journaling as a way to set intentions and focus on what you want to achieve.

Connect with nature - Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve mood. Take a walk in the park, go for a hike, or simply sit outside and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.

Connect with loved ones - Spending time with loved ones can be a powerful way to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Whether it's a phone call, video chat, or a visit in person, make time to connect with those who are important to you.

Create a self-care routine - Develop a self-care routine that works for you. This can include activities like reading a book, taking a bubble bath, or practicing yoga. Make self-care a priority in your life.

Practice gratitude - Focusing on what you are grateful for can help shift your perspective and reduce stress. Take time each day to write down a few things you are grateful for.

Seek professional support - If you are struggling with stress or anxiety, seek professional support from a therapist or counsellor. They can provide you with the tools and resources you need to manage stress in a healthy way. I have worked with a counsellor for more than 1.5 years and highly recommend it.

Nutrition - What you eat can have a significant impact on your mood and stress levels. A healthy, balanced diet with the right amount of Protein, Carbs, Fats and fibre can help you feel more energized and less stressed.

Remember, self-care is not selfish. Taking care of yourself is essential for your overall well-being and can help you better manage stress levels.

By incorporating these 10 tips into your daily routine, you can reduce stress and avoid turning to harmful coping mechanisms like alcohol or binge eating.

I hope you found these tips helpful.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about how to reduce stress levels through self-care, feel free to reach out to me.

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