Stress Management Tool Kit Essentials

With Thanksgiving last week, the holiday season in now officially in full swing.  While this season should be filled with love and laughter, family and friends, it often comes with higher levels of stress. A couple years ago, I shared 4 Tips to Relieve Stress. Those are still some really great tips, but they do take some time. And, let's face it, sometimes during high stress, we need simple, quick, and easy solutions to help lower that stress.

I recently received a Wellness Newsletter at work. It was mostly about stress management, and one of the things it suggested was having a Stress Managment Tool Kit.

I couldn't resist sharing some tool kit essentials that can help you relieve stress anytime anywhere.

Breath

This is probably the BEST tool in anyone's tool kit!

Just pausing and breathing deeply for a few minutes helps slow your heart rate, gets oxygen into your system and allows you to automatically relax. ⇐ Stolen directly from the company newsletter.

Next time you're feeling stressed, take a couple minutes for some deep breathing.

Take a deep breath through your nose for a count of 4.
Pause for another count of 4.
Exhale slowly for a count of 6.
Repeat a few times until you start to feel calm and relaxed.

Smile

Such a simple thing to do, but can really turn the day around!

The act of smiling releases the “feel good” neurotransmitters of dopamine, serotonin and endorphins into your system, giving you a boost. ⇐ Another stolen tidbit from the company newsletter.

Memories

Slip away from the stress and chaos for a few minutes by sitting back and visualizing a loved one or a favorite place. If you work in a place that allows you to hang a picture or two of things that remind you of happy, relaxed times, take advantage!

This may seem like such a simple thing, but it could be just what you need to help you regain focus and control of whatever's causing you stress.

Music

Try switching to calm, mellow music when you're feeling stressed. Or try listening to comedy instead. Just be aware of the people around you. No sense increasing the stress of others by forcing your music onto them. 😉 Perhaps put together a playlist that brings you to your happy place.

Fragrance

Do you have a favorite scent? Did you know it can trigger feelings of peace and well-being? Try carrying around your favorite scent in an essential oil or lotion. It may give you just the boost you need.

Do you keep any of these in your Stress Management Tool Kit?
What else would you suggest adding?

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