Yep, you read that title correctly.  In this blog I am going to share my top tips for relieving stress virtually in the moment.  That’s not hype.  It can be done.  The key is first recognizing the need to utilize one of these strategies, as well as taking the time to do them.  Don’t believe me?  Try one of these for yourself…

My top 5 tips for relieving stress almost instantly:

• Breathe – slow, intentional breathing…whether you count your breath or simply take deep inhales and exhales, either way slowing your breathing automatically triggers your nervous system to relax
• Walk away – just walk away from the stressor, even if it is for a few moments while you take a few deep breaths…but often just removing yourself form the immediate situation allows you to get a better perspective on the situation and see things more clearly, which in turn lessens your stress levels
• Do some yoga – one of the best ways to help your body and mind relax is to do some hatha yoga…through the movement of the body and the breath your nervous system will begin to relax, and your stress levels will reduce significantly
• Meditate – just like practicing yoga when you are stressed, taking a moment to just be still can significantly calm your nervous system and relieve stress…you can use an app or simply sit in silence following the flow of your breath – either way you will feel immediate relief
• Listen to relaxing music – when you are feeling stressed, anything you can do to slow the body, mind, and/or breath down will help…and so by listening to calming, relaxing music you can help the body change its inner rhythms…coupled with some breathing this can be very effective at lowering stress levels

It really can be that simple.  We often get in our own way but allowing ourselves to believe the answer must be complicated or time consuming.  But when it comes to reducing stress, the most effective ways to do that are quite simple in most cases.  Not every method will work for every stressful situation, but if you allow yourself some grace and some time to “play” with these different stress-reducing techniques you will find what works best for you.

Wishing you a day filled with less stress. Namaste friends.