It comes as no surprise that life can be stressful for many individuals. Check out these tips and tricks to reduce stress!
Exercise:
Get up and move! Studies show that exercising can reduce stress at high rates. According to a study by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, “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” – Anxiety and Depression Association of America. It doesn’t need to be anything too crazy either. Take a weekly yoga class, do a 20 minute home exercise program after getting home from work, get together with a friend or co-worker and go for a walk in the neighborhood!
Routine:
It may sound silly, but establishing a daily routine can help to lower stress levels all while creating healthy habits! Start small by making your bed everyday or making yourself a nutritious smoothie for breakfast. Throughout your day, try to add in small but effective habits like taking a walk on your lunch break or giving yourself some extra time to enjoy your coffee. At the end of the day, set aside some time to enjoy your favorite things. Whether it be watching your favorite TV show, reading a book, or playing a video game- find whatever works for you to help you unwind! Starting a routine should be fun and easy- start small and build gradually; you will feel your stress drifting away in no time.
Communication:
We’ve all heard it before- communication is KEY! If you have someone in your daily life who may be causing conflict (family, friend, co-worker) just talk to them. Not only will they understand that you have concerns, but you can work together to find a compromise. Communicating feelings of uncertainty or conflict helps to lift a weight off of your shoulders and facilitate a space for creative thinking and compromise. 
If you want more tips and tricks the CDC has amazing resources to help individuals reduce their stress! Click Here to learn more.
