10 Tips for Stress Reduction

.Dealing with stress

We all experience stress at some point in our life. Bereavement, Divorce, Moving house and major illness are some of the more notorious causes of stress. However even happy events such as the birth of a child, marriage or even a new job can lead to stress because they can disrupt your lifestyle. One of the first thing I do when a client first comes to see me is to look at their lifestyle. There are many simple changes that can be made that can help to reduce stress. Many of these changes /skills can empower them for the future.

• Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol and Nicotine

These are best avoided or reduced. All of these are stimulants and all will increase your stress rather than reduce it. It's also important to stay well hydrated.

• Take physical exercise

Exercise can help to metabolise excessive stress hormones, and restore your body and mind to a calmer, more relaxed state.

• Get more sleep

Lack of sleep is a significant cause of stress. There are several things you can do to maximise relaxation before bedtime: try to maintain a regular routine; read a calm undemanding book; turn off electronic devices such as T. V’s, phones and laptops one or two hours before bed; ensure your bedroom is a tranquil, uncluttered environment.

• Relaxation Techniques

Self-hypnosis and meditation can help to calm the mind, creating the right state of mind to promote sleep.

• Talk to someone

Just talking to someone can help, a loved one, friend or therapist can be very therapeutic.

• Stress Diary

Keeping a diary can help you to see any pattern and analyse triggers to stress. You may want to record the date, time, place and what you were doing. Even just writing things down can be very therapeutic.

• Take Control

Try to take control of the situation by finding solutions to your problems. Perhaps discussing things with someone could help you to find new options. You could also try writing down the problem and possible solutions.

• Manage your time

Accept that you can't do everything. Delegate tasks where possible.

• Learn to say no

Fear of conflict, rejection or missed opportunities can lead to taking too much on and “burning out”. You need to develop self-confidence and learn to say no.

• Rest if you are ill

A short spell of rest will enable the body to recover faster.