Whether it’s from your studies or work, stress has a way of creeping up on you. But being constantly stressed isn’t good for your health. Rather than letting your stress levels build up, here are a couple of ways that you can relax and calm yourself.

What happens when you’re stressed?

When you encounter a stressful situation your nervous system tells your body to release stress hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol, and noradrenaline. These produce physiological changes in the body to help deal with a perceived threat or danger. This stress response is called the flight or fight response.

Stress can be a good thing sometimes. However, when you experience stress for too long, that’s when problems occur. Constant stress can wreak havoc on your immune system, cardiovascular system, musculoskeletal system (causing migraines) and on your endocrine system (causing mood swings).

How then can you de-stress?

Listen to classical music

Classical music has a very soothing effect – it lowers your blood pressure, relaxes tense muscles, and reduces your heart rate and stress hormones. So make sure to add some Bach, Beethoven, and Chopin to your playlist for some relaxing tunes.

Go for a short walk

Getting out of a stressful environment is vital to calm you down. A walk will help to clear your head and will boost your endorphins, which helps to reduce your stress hormones. So if there’s a park by your work, go for a short 10-minute stroll. That way when you’re back in the office or lecture hall, you’ll be a lot calmer.

Meditate

Meditation is a great tool for relaxation. Besides lowering your heart rate and blood pressure, it can also improve your cognitive function. If you’ve never meditated before then don’t stress because it’s super easy. Just find a quiet and comfortable place, then sit down with your legs crossed and close your eyes.

Chose one thing to focus on, whether it’s your breathing or a picture in your mind. The key is to stay focused and to not let anything distract you. While you’re doing this, make sure that you slow down your breathing and soon you’ll find yourself feeling much better.

Watch a funny cat video

Having a good laugh is a great relaxation technique. Laughter increases your intake of air and stimulates your lungs, heart, and muscles. So if you’re looking for a break in your stressful environment, open up Youtube and watch the funniest video you can find.

Chew gum

Chewing gum can actually reduce your anxiety, improve alertness and reduce stress while you’re multitasking. If your work or studies are stressing you out, keep a pack of gum in your bag so that it’s in reach.

Keeping yourself away from stress isn’t the easiest thing to do. Stress is everywhere these days and we often find ourselves freaking out about something before we even realise it. So next time you feel like your stress levels are rising, follow some of these tips and soon you’ll be feeling much more relaxed.