Time to unwind
Learning to relax and control your stress will not only help you to enjoy life more, but it will be better for your heart health in the long run.
There are many ways to get your stress levels down. Try out different approaches to see what suits you.
Below are some tips that can help you to relax and reduce stress levels:
- List the things that trigger your stress. Is it a work situation or a traffic jam? Recognising your stress trigger is a big step forward. Try to relax in these situations.
- Build a social support network of friends and family - remember a trouble shared is a trouble halved.
- Learn stress coping strategies such as relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, meditation, yoga or massage.
- Take time out to unwind - even if it's just for 10 minutes. Try to read, take a bath or do something else you enjoy. If you work, make sure you take a break for lunch.
- Taking regular exercise, such as gentle cycling, brisk walking or swimming - this can improve your mood and help you deal with life's demands.
- Stop trying to do more than one thing at a time. Put jobs in order of importance and try to plan ahead instead of doing everything at the last minute.
- During times of acute stress, seeking professional help or counselling may be helpful.
