8 Super Simple Tips to Relieve Stress
Stress can wreak havoc on your body and mind. It can tax your immune system, leaving you more susceptible to seasonal colds and the flu and feeling frazzled. Heavy holiday foods don't help fortify the immune system, either.
Luckily, there are a few tried-and-true strategies for stress relief to employ - most can be done at home in a minute or less.
Take Your Walk Outside! -
There's little that beats a good sweat session for stress relief. Fitting in physical activity can raise levels of dopamine and serotonin in your brain - the happy hormones - and keep the stress hormone cortisol at bay.
Watch a Funny Video -
Taking just a few minutes to laugh can subconsciously boost mood, enhancing problem-solving abilities and creativity at work.
Volunteer -
It's another thing on your to-do list, yes, but giving to others makes you feel good. Regular volunteers even live longer than those who don't give back, one study found. Plus, a daily dose of gratitude for the good things in your life can enhance your feelings of well-being during this or any season.
Load Up On Fruits and Veggies -
A varied, brightly colored diet ensures you're getting the micronutrients you need to stave off sickness. Plus, you'll have more energy when you're taking care of yourself
Don't Burn The Midnight Oil -
Sacrificing sleep on both ends of your day helps no one. When you're sleep deprived, your cognitive abilities are compromised. You feel more moody and agitated when you're tired, plus you're far more likely to dip into the office snack stash because sleep deprivation sends your hunger hormones into overdrive.
Commit to Just One Minute of Movement -
We mentioned exercise is great for your mood, but what if you're time strapped? Try just one minute of heart-pumping exercise - jumping jacks, jump rope, burpees - and you'll feel instantly refreshed and ready to refocus.
Breathe Deeply -
Conscious breathing exercises and meditation can help you decompress and reconnect.
See Red -
Surrounding yourself with bright colors can boost your brainpower. Red in particular is an energizer, Constance Hart, a color therapy expert
told Vogue.com.