30 coping mechanisms for stress relief

After a busy, tiring week of work and other engagements I find myself finally catching my breathe this Sunday afternoon. After reflecting on the week, I can say with certainty that I was stressed and that I did not handle my stress well ... and maybe that's why I feel like I've been hit by a bus; physically and emotionally. 

Whether we like it or not, stress is a part of all of our lives. While some may be less susceptible to stress than others, it is still inevitable that you will find yourself in stressful situations from time to time. But there's good news; you have some control over how these stressful times effect you. 

The following coping mechanisms will help you deal with stress before, during and after it hits:

1. Stop. Breathe. Place a hand on your chest and a hand on your belly. Aim to move the hand on your chest and belly up and down. This will mean you are breathing deeply. Or simply sync your breathing up with this gif.

2. Smile. Release those feel good and stress lowering endorphins!

3. Make time for exercise. Use that nervous energy for something productive that has been proven to lower stress and improve mood. 

4. Don't be afraid to say "no" when your plate is already full. You know best how much you can handle. 

5. Focus on the things that you can control in your life. 

Focus on the things that are in your circle of control. 

6. Although you may feel tempted to turn to 'comfort food,' it is best to stick to healthy foods. Overloading on carbs and sugar may make you feel worse in the long run. 

7. Remind yourself that "this too shall pass." Or come up with your own mantra to help you through a rough patch. 

8. Have some water. If you deprive your body of water it will think you are in danger and make you more stressed than you need to be. Drink up!

9. Consider disconnecting from technology for a little while. While things like social media sites can be fun, they can also be stressful and can lower your mood. Limit your screen time - you don't need to live online!

10.  Pamper yourself. Calm down with that new face mask you bought, pour yourself a bubble bath, drink some tea and have a little down time. 

11. Got a boyfriend or girlfriend? Cuddle them! Cuddling releases oxytocin, a feel good hormone, that helps you think positively. 

12. Try aromatherapy. Scents such as lavender and rose can help to calm you down. You can buy these in creams, roll ons, candles, sprays, or for a diffuser. 

Lavender

13. Talk to a loved one. Whether it be in person or on the phone, talking over what is stressing you can be extremely helpful. You are allowed to rant a little - just be sure that you aren't simply dumping all your problems on that person all the time!

14. Identify what it is that you are actually stressing about. Sometimes you may be stressed and not really know about why in particular.  Knowing why you are stressed is a crucial step towards relieving the pressure. 

15. When applicable, make a game plan for how to tackle the problem(s) at hand. Stressing about a test coming up? Make a study plan to help ease your nerves and increase your success. 

16. De-clutter your work or living space. I know that when my spaces are organized I feel more organized. 

17. Laugh! Sometimes a good laugh is all you need. Look up some dank memes, watch your favourite comedy (like The Office), or watch a good 'ol vine compilation like the one below. Whatever floats your goat!

18. Try meditating. Click here to go to the University of California, Los Angeles' page of free guided mindful meditations. It is best to not just turn to meditation when you are stressed but to make it a part of your everyday life. My favourite UCLA meditation is the guided body scan for sleep. 

19. Mix elements of exercise and meditation on the mat with a bit of yoga. Go to a local class or follow along with a youtube video at home. 

20. Get enough sleep. Everybody gets cranky when they are running on empty!

21. Listen to a calming and relaxing playlist. 

22. Get outside amongst nature and restore your mind. 

Breathe in some fresh air.

23. Have a warm drink - hot chocolate, coffee, tea, etc.

24. Participate in your favourite hobby. Is roller blading your thing? Get out there and do it!

25. Change up your scenery. Change your physical space to change your headspace. 

26. Learn to recognize the signs of stress and take action to stop it in its tracks before it runs you over. 

27. Play with a pet. 

28. Remind yourself of times that you have successfully handled a similar situation in the past. Draw inspiration!

29. Learn from what is happening and try to avoid this stressor in the future. For example, if you are stressed because you left your assignment until the last minute, try to start your assignment earlier next time. If the stressor is unavoidable, acknowledge it and take precautions in the future. 

30. Ask for help. If your stress is frequent, intense, or if you experience panic attacks, please seek medical attention. Your doctor can help you towards a healthy mental balance. You never need to suffer alone!

black and white art GIF by Threadless - GIPHY

I hope these coping mechanisms will help you manage the stress in your life. Let me know what you do to relieve stress. Share and don't worry, be happy!

Stay classy, never trashy, and just a little sassy!

- Kel  <3

References 

Seaward B. L. Physical Exercise: Flushing out the stress hormones. Essentials of Managing Stress. 3rd ed. Sudbury, Mass: Jones & Barlett Publishers. 2014. 

https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/10-surprising-benefits-cuddling-that-make-you-want-cuddle-someone-now.html