3 Ways to Lower Stress Without Leaving Your House
By Genevieve Cunningham
When people think about stress relief, they often think big. They think about scheduling a full body massage and heading over on a Saturday morning to get their muscles rubbed out. They think about taking off work for a much needed vacation. They think about these big, luxurious moments that are sure to bring a break from stress. But those big moments aren't always possible. Sometimes we just need a little stress relief on a daily basis. If you're in need of lowering your stress, take a look at these three things you can do every day from the comfort of your own home.
A Long Hot Shower
A hot shower feels so good. But beyond simply feeling good to body and mind, a hot shower can physically relax the muscles and help you breathe. The hot water falls over the muscles, and as it does, the muscle is better able to relax. This can feel especially beneficial to the neck and back muscles. But the steam from the shower can also open your sinuses and allow you to breathe deeply. This combination of muscle relaxation and deep breathing can completely wipe away stress and leave you feeling refreshed for the rest of the night.
A Stretch Session or Yoga
If you'd rather eliminate stress by movement, try getting in a yoga session -- or even just a really good stretching session. Sometimes we hold stress in our bodies. When we stretch, we allow that tension to let go, and as a result, we feel more relaxed in both body and mind. This is a low-impact, calorie-burning, relaxing way to relieve stress and invite calm into your life.
A Hot Drink With a Relaxing Hobby
If you feel like remaining active while you release stress, try making yourself a warm drink -- something soothing like peppermint tea -- and participating in your favorite hobby. Maybe that's reading, doing a puzzle, painting, or any number of activities. The warm drink will help soothe the body, and the activity will occupy the mind. It's a soothing way to lower stress and end your day.
While a planned massage or a vacation across the world can certainly be a stress reliever, it's also possible to lower stress without ever leaving home. Use these suggestions to get started, and you can lower stress every day for a healthier, happier life moving forward.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Asheville, N.C.