7 Simple Ways to Lower Your Stress

Anyone else feeling a little (or a lot) stressed or overwhelmed because of everything going on in the world right now? I know it can’t just be me.

For us it feels like one thing after another, first it was Covid-19. I don’t really need to go into details on that one because we all understand how stressful that virus has made each of our lives.

Then we had an out of state move in May which included the start of my husband’s painting business. I know I know. Perfect timing right! Honestly this had been planned since the beginning of the year and things were already in motion to the point where there was no backing out.

Next thing you know I’m flooded with disheartening stories in the media. The death of George Floyd, the riots, more deaths, the lies, the hate, and so much more.  Ugh…

Well, I decided that the best thing for everyone right now is to find or establish some practices that will help lower the stress level in our day to day lives, especially right now.

So, let’s jump right into it.

1. Get Off Social Media

I get that you want to keep up with what’s going on in the world, but sometimes you need to distance yourself and that’s ok. Rome wasn’t built in a day and our social injustice and Covid-19 cases aren’t going to just disappear overnight. It’s going to take time and action on our part, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t put up some well-placed boundaries.

The best thing you can do is allow yourself to have a certain amount of time on social media then get off and walk away. Set a timer if you have to. Just do what’s best for you, even if that means getting off all social media for the time being. We all have different levels of stress that we can handle, so if this is too much then give yourself permission to walk away.

Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not saying to stick your head in the sand and pretend like none of this exists, but I am saying you shouldn’t let it consume you. Know your boundaries.

2. Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep is critical for our bodies to heal and replenish themselves for the next day. If you aren’t sleeping AT LEAST 7 hours a night, then you’re robbing your body and increasing your stress levels. Not to mention all the other side effects that come along with lack of sleep like slower metabolism, weight gain, depression, and much more.

The best way to get you to bed at a decent time is to set an alarm that goes off 30 minutes before you want to be in bed. That way you have enough time to wrap up what you’re doing and get ready for bed.

Stress & Sleep Article 

3. Establish a Routine

Having a day to day routine can help lower your stress by keeping you focused. In turn your focus will allow you to accomplish more things which will then boost your mood and confidence.

I’ve found that the best way to establish and stick to a routine is with a Daily Routine Checklist. It’s easy, visual, and can be adjusted whenever need be.

You can download my Daily Routine Checklist here. Just scroll to the bottom of the page and fill out the form.

4. Implement Self Care

Taking time for yourself can do wonders in lowering your stress. I get it. Finding even 5 minutes sometimes can feel beyond impossible, but I urge you to try and figure some way you can implement some kind of self-care.  Take a long bath, sit outside by yourself and drink a cup of coffee, go get a manicure, go have some girl time, take 5 minutes and put on your make up, just do anything that gives you a mental break and lifts your spirit.

For more Self-Care ideas check out my post 10 Simple & Free Self-Care Activities. 

5. Drink Water

Stress can cause dehydration and dehydration can cause stress. It’s a cycle you don’t want to be in, but unfortunately most of us are. When we’re stressed drinking water is the least of our worries, which means we easily become dehydrated. When you’re dehydrated your body releases cortisol a stress hormone.

So, go drink some water, then go drink some more!

Lack of water and stress article. 

6. Exercise

I know this doesn’t sound fun for most of us, but some exercise can do wonders for your stress levels. When I work out (especially in the morning) I feel better about myself and have higher energy for the rest of the day. When I feel better about myself my stress levels are super low.

Not to mention science is on our side.

“Scientists have found that regular participation in aerobic exercise has been shown to decrease overall levels of tension, elevate and stabilize mood, improve sleep, and improve self-esteem. Even five minutes of aerobic exercise can stimulate anti-anxiety effects.”

7. Go on Dates with Your Friends

It can be hard to find time to step away from the busy life that is motherhood, but there’s nothing better than getting to step way from the chaos and spend some quality time with your friends. Go out for sushi, go watch a movie, or just go stroll through Target with a coffee! What every you like to do, do it with friends. 

As moms we experience all types of stress multiple times a day. From your marriage, to finances, your workload, and even the stress of raising kids. This doesn’t even include the added stress that the world has dumped on us this year.

Hopefully implementing these tips can help you lower your stress levels and boost your peace of mind. Remember to get off social media, get adequate sleep, establish a routine, implement self-care, drink water, exercise, and go on date with your friends.