Some really easy ways to bust stress

Dance

Yes, and it doesn’t matter even if you have two left feet like me. Just bust a move, turn up that music really loud and shake a leg – dance. An average person who weighs about 65 kgs can burn around 180 calories from forty minutes of energetic dancing.

Television

You can actually escape from stress by watching TV. My guilty pleasure is those shows that make me laugh. There’s research to prove that laughing brings down stress hormones, reduces blood pressure, improves your immune system. Just don’t do too much of the TV thing.

Positive thinking

I like to call it thought exchange. When your plate is overfull – rather than think “Oh, there’s too much on my plate” try thinking “Wow, that’s a feast!”. By being optimistic, you can reduce stress. Those who practice positive thinking enjoy additional health benefits that include a lower risk of coronary heart disease, better resistance to colds and flu and improved breathing. You also tend to cope better with life and yes, you live longer.

Jogging

You can fight stress by running three or four times a week. Do it with friends or family. The average person can burn close to 270 calories from a 30-minute jog.

Cuddle up with your sweetie

That’s a cool prescription to relieve stress. Enjoy some quality time with someone you enjoy being with. Light some candles, enjoy a long bath, chill out. Let go of your stress.

Go dark

Dark chocolate, I meant. It’s a lovely treat, tastes great and has antioxidants that help. But, remember to exercise control since it also brings on the fat and calories and we don’t want to start worrying about that!

Exercise

Whether you enjoy gymming or working out on your own, exercise is a great stress reliever. The endorphins you release in the process are great for you and also help fight depression.

Play with your pet

Play with your pets or your neighbors’. It seems that petting a dog can lower your blood pressure.

Stretching

Stretching with Pilates or Yoga can reduce stress, improve your balance and muscle tone, build your core strength and flexibility and build the immune system.

Relax

We’re back at relaxing – go out to your favorite restaurant for a meal. Take a nap or stretch out by the pool. Read a book.

Enjoy a drink and a movie

A glass of red wine + a funny movie can really take your mind off your stress. Red wine, according to studies, has antioxidants, anticoagulants, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. It is also said to lower your risk for heart disease when you drink in moderation.

Meditation

Meditation or yoga classes can calm you in a big way. If you enjoy chanting, go ahead and do it. I like “Om” in a long-drawn-out way. Learned it at my son’s school. Meditation has long term benefits on mental, emotional and physical health. Moreover, you can do it anywhere.

Massage

If you can afford it, go to a spa and get a massage. Massage is a great way to de-stress, get rid of anxiety and pain, help yourself heal and strengthen the immune system. (Let me know if you want to know how to enjoy the spa-like stuff at home).

Do add your own tips in the comments section!