Feeling overwhelmed or stressed out? Join the club.
Life is hectic at the best of times, and sometimes we just need a breather. The good news is, staying calm under pressure isn’t about being some kind of zen master; it’s about finding little tricks that work for you. Here are some unexpected ways to keep your cool when things get heated.
1. You take a moment to name your emotions.
Instead of saying, “I’m stressed,” get specific. Are you frustrated, anxious, overwhelmed, or something else? Pinpointing the exact feeling can make it less intimidating. It’s like shining a light on a monster lurking in the dark – suddenly, it’s not so scary.
2. You step outside for a change of scenery.
Sometimes, a literal breath of fresh air is all you need. Nature has a way of calming us down, whether it’s a quick walk around the block or just standing outside for a few minutes. Let the sun (or rain) hit your face, and focus on the sights and sounds around you. It might just shift your perspective.
3. You engage in a quick physical activity.
Source: Unsplash Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean hitting the gym for an hour. A few jumping jacks, a quick dance to your favourite song, or even stretching for a few minutes can do wonders. Physical movement releases endorphins, those lovely little chemicals that boost your mood. Plus, it’s a healthy way to channel nervous energy.
4. You connect with a trusted friend or family member.
Sharing your worries with someone who cares can make a world of difference. It doesn’t have to be a deep, emotional conversation. Sometimes, just venting about your day or having a good laugh together can help you release tension. Remember, you’re not alone in this.
5. You practice deep breathing exercises.
This might sound cliché, but it really works. When you’re stressed, your breathing tends to get shallow and rapid. Taking a few deep breaths can slow down your heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and calm your nervous system. There are tons of different breathing techniques out there – find one that works for you and make it a regular practice.
6. You allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling.
Trying to suppress your emotions is like holding a beach ball underwater – it’s only a matter of time before it pops back up. Instead, give yourself permission to feel whatever you’re feeling. Cry if you need to, yell if you want to (just not at anyone, preferably). Acknowledging your emotions is the first step towards dealing with them.
7. You find a quiet spot to relax and de-stress.
Sometimes, you just need to get away from it all. Find a quiet spot where you can be alone with your thoughts. It could be your bedroom, a park bench, or even the bathroom (we won’t judge). Dim the lights, put on some calming music, or just sit in silence. The goal is to create a peaceful environment where you can recharge.
8. You treat yourself to something enjoyable.
Think of this as a mini-reward for getting through a tough moment. It could be a warm bath, a piece of chocolate, or an episode of your favourite TV show. Doing something you enjoy can lift your spirits and remind you that there’s still good stuff in the world, even when things feel overwhelming.
9. You declutter your immediate surroundings.
Source: Unsplash A messy space can lead to a messy mind. Take a few minutes to tidy up your desk, your living room, or wherever you’re spending your time. Even small tasks like putting away dishes or organising papers can create a sense of order and calm. A clear space can help you think more clearly and feel less overwhelmed.
10. You spend time with animals or nature.
Animals and nature have an uncanny ability to soothe our souls. If you have a pet, cuddle up with them for a while. If not, head to a park, a forest, or even just look out your window at the trees. Being around nature can lower stress hormones, boost mood, and even improve your immune system. It’s like a natural reset button for your mind and body.
11. You disconnect from technology for a while.
The constant pings and notifications from our devices can be a major source of stress. Try setting aside some time each day to unplug. Put your phone on silent, close your laptop, and step away from the screens. Read a book, thavea bath, or just sit and do nothing. Give your brain a break from the digital overload and see how much calmer you feel.
12. You find a creative outlet to express yourself.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s painting, writing, playing music, or even just doodling, expressing yourself creatively can be incredibly therapeutic. It allows you to channel your emotions into something tangible and can be a great way to release pent-up stress. Don’t worry about being “good” at it – just focus on the process of creating and let your emotions flow.
13. You practice mindfulness meditation.
Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment. It involves paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judging them. There are many different types of mindfulness meditation, but even a few minutes of focusing on your breath can make a difference. Mindfulness can help you become more aware of your triggers and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
14. You set boundaries and learn to say no.
Sometimes, the pressure we feel comes from taking on too much. It’s okay to say no to requests that don’t align with your priorities or that would leave you feeling overwhelmed. Setting healthy boundaries is an act of self-care. It allows you to protect your time and energy so you can show up as your best self for the things that truly matter.
