Ways to Reduce Chronic Stress

Exercise – Being active can improve emotional well-being. Getting up and dancing, moving around, or stretching for ten minutes can help.  Dr. Birken has an article in this newsletter about the health benefits of yoga.

Practice deep breathing – Try sitting with your eyes closed and breath deeply. Slowly release your breath and repeat ten times.

Meditate – A simple meditation is to sit quietly for 10 minutes and focus on your breath. Pay attention to how each breath feels as you inhale and exhale. When you find your thoughts wandering, bring them back to your breath.

Practice gratefulness – Each day, write down three to five things you are grateful for. As you continue to do this, you might become more positive throughout the day and continuously look for what makes you happy.

Be social – Spend time getting together and laughing with friends. Creating relationships provides a sense of belonging and can give life meaning.

Listen to music – Make a playlist of music you like, sit back, close your eyes, and listen.

Take care of your body – Exercise, eating right, limiting alcohol consumption, and not smoking or using tobacco products are the keys to a healthy life.