Mike’s Tennis
Tips
8 Simple Ways to
Control Stress!
Simple modifications in
posture, habits, thought, and behavior often go a long way toward reducing
feelings of stress and tension. Here are 8 quick and simple things you can do immediately to help keep your stress
level under control.
1. Control
Your Anger:
Watch for the next instance
in which you find yourself becoming annoyed or angry at something trivial or
unimportant, then practice letting go - make a conscious choice not to become
angry or upset. Do not allow yourself to waste thought and energy where it
isn't deserved. Effective anger management is a tried-and-true stress reducer.
2. Breathe:
Breathe slowly and deeply.
Before reacting to the next stressful occurrence, take three deep breaths and
release them slowly. If you have a few minutes, try out breathing exercises
such as meditation or guided imagery.
3. Slow
Down:
Whenever you feel
overwhelmed by stress, practice speaking more slowly than usual. You'll find
that you think more clearly and react more reasonably to stressful situations.
Stressed people tend to speak fast and breathlessly; by slowing down your
speech you'll also appear less anxious and more in control of any situation.
4. Complete
One Simple To Do:
Jump start an effective
time management strategy. Choose one simple thing you have been putting off
(e.g. returning a phone call, making a doctor's appointment) and do it
immediately. Just taking care of one nagging responsibility can be energizing
and can improve your attitude.
5.
Get Some Fresh Air:
Get outdoors for a brief
break. Our grandparents were right about the healing power of fresh air. Don't
be deterred by foul weather or a full schedule. Even five minutes on a balcony
or terrace can be rejuvenating.
6.
Avoid Hunger and Dehydration:
Drink plenty of water and
eat small, nutritious snacks. Hunger and dehydration, even before you're aware
of them, can provoke aggressiveness and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and
stress.
7.
Do a Quick Posture Check:
Hold your head and
shoulders upright and avoid stooping or slumping. Bad posture can lead to
muscle tension, pain, and increased stress.
8.
Recharge at the Day’s End:
Plan something rewarding
for the end of your stressful day, even if only a relaxing bath or half an hour
with a good book. Put aside work, housekeeping or family concerns for a brief
period before bedtime and allow yourself to fully relax. Don't spend this time
planning tomorrow's schedule or doing chores you didn't get around to during
the day. Remember that you need time to recharge and energize yourself - you'll
be much better prepared to face another stressful day.
