Feeling overwhelmed, stressed or as if you're being pulled in twenty different directions? It's time for a fresh start! Overhaul your life by doing things just a little bit different whether it's being a better friend, taking time for yourself, be more organised or spending more time with family and you'll see and feel the benefits almost immediately!
Stress Less: Easier said than done? Of course! But by making small changes and implementing strategies you can work every day to become less stressed! First and foremost you must learn to only focus on the things you can control whilst having the courage to laugh out loud and remember stress will pass. Being organised and prioritising tasks will lower your stress levels and result in the feeling of relief. Take time on a Sunday to structure each day in the week (even write a list in your diary, if it will help) and spread your responsibilities out so you can accomplish a smaller activity, every day. Overhauling your life will mean less general stress.
Relax: In this modern day we don't take time out for ourselves, whether it's to watch television, see a movie or get a manicure; relaxing is important for our general wellbeing and is a must when aiming to make a change, for the better. No matter how hectic life seems aim to take at least 15 minutes per day for yourself, whether it's in the morning, during the day or at night, turn off the television and flick your phone to silent and spend some time doing what you enjoy most - have a quiet cup of tea, listen to music, taking a walk, have a bath or even a good stretch. Taking time to relax will decrease stress, anxiety and anger levels and increase immunity, concentration and efficiently.
Positivity Having a 'can do' attitude will give every day that extra boost. Be affirmative with yourself (because you're awesome) and admit that you do love and accept yourself. Don't dramatise your life, this habit is destructive and creates anxiety and worry. Most importantly, don't forget to smile; we typically smile when we're happy and relaxed but smiling (even when you're not feeling the best) will aid in making you feel more happy and relaxed!
Imperfection: Unfortunately no one is perfect and spending your entire life trying to achieve perfection is exhausting and the number one cause for unnecessary stress. Aiming for perfection in all aspects of your life will leave you exhausted. Aim for the attainable - be the best you can be and give every task your all.
Make Time Increase the time you spend with those who you care most about and those that make you feel good. Decrease the time spent with people who are negative or gossips as they will impact your positivity. Ensuring you make time to spend with family and close friends is principal to overhauling your life for the better because those who you surround yourself with have the largest impact on your life and wellbeing.
Exercise Exercising will help relieve stress and manage anger whilst also releasing chemicals that give you that extra lift and help you get a better night's sleep. Surprisingly when you exercise you will boost your energy and concentration levels which will help you get through each busy day. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and increases fitness which reduces the risk of many health conditions and diseases. Exercise doesn't have to be boring, it's about being active - make it fun and ask a friend to come along!
Hydrate Decrease your soft drink, juice and alcohol consumption and increase water as it has a huge list of benefits such as increasing productivity, energy and health whilst also relieving fatigue and reducing the risk of health conditions. Water also helps the body remove waste and aids in digestion. Simply keep a water bottle with you at all times and continually take sips and you'll notice benefits almost immediately.
Nutrition The importance of a nutritious and healthy diet is paramount to your wellbeing and the major overhaul of your life. Begin thinking about what you eat and ensure you are consuming enough fruit and vegetables to maintain and nourish your body. Eating a healthy diet will help prevent illness, decrease stress and encourage optimal health.
Learn To Say No We often become overwhelmed due to all the activities and events we take part in because we are not clear of our individual limits. Even though activities often seem fun, if you become overinvolved or overcommit these may become a stress and lose their appeal. Next time you're asked to do something new, count to ten and really think about it before saying 'yes'.
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