​Limit Exposure to Stress Triggers
Identify the situations or people that trigger stress and try to limit your exposure to them. If certain environments or social interactions cause anxiety, consider finding healthier alternatives or coping mechanisms. ​​
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​Seek Support from Loved Ones
​Talking to someone you trust about your stress and anxiety can be incredibly beneficial. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist who can provide valuable insights and help you navigate through challenging times. 
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Engage in Relaxation Techniques
Incorporate relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, or listening to soothing music into your daily routine. These practices can help you unwind and manage stress. 

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Prioritize Self-Care
Remember that taking care of yourself is essential. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it's reading a book, spending time in nature, or engaging in a hobby. 
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​​Mindfulness meditation is a powerful technique to cultivate present-moment awareness and reduce stress. Set aside a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and observe your thoughts without judgment. This practice can help you stay grounded and centered amidst life's challenges.
Truth be told, I don't meditate every day because life gets in the way.  However, my sweet boyfriend bought me the Calm app.  Because I used it quite a bit, he bought me lifetime access when there was a Black Friday sale.  I try to use it as much as I can, but I also don't put too much pressure on it.

I heard there is a free equivalent version called Insight Timer.

Exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health but also for your mental well-being. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, releases endorphins, the body's natural stress-relievers, and can help alleviate anxiety.
It took me a long time to figure out what exercises worked and didn't work for me.  Recently, I started doing reformer-based pilates and I love it!

​What you eat can also impact your stress levels. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce your intake of caffeine and sugary foods, as they can contribute to feelings of anxiety.
I was born a picky eater, so it's very hard for me to achieve a balanced diet, too.  I try to incorporate some veggies into my smoothies when I know my body tells me there aren't enough "good" nutrients.

Adequate sleep is vital for managing stress and anxiety. Create a sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Limit screen time before bedtime to improve the quality of your sleep.
As I get older, I realize a good, well-rested night of sleep is more precious than gold.My sleep routine involves the following:

• Optimal temperature in my bedroom
• A diffuser with lavender and peppermint essential oils
• Blackout blinds
• White noise (I alternate between white noise, brown noise, and heavy rain sounds on my Calm App)

When you feel overwhelmed, take a moment to practice deep breathing. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Deep breathing can calm your nervous system and reduce stress.
I like this one - Sudarshan Kriya. It's completely free on YouTube.
I stumbled on this ancient breathwork when I read the best-selling book Breath, written by James Nester.  It's hard at the beginning but it gets easier.

If you have read the whole thing, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.
Why stop here? Go leave me a comment, please.

Out of the 5 ways to destress, which one is your go to? which one is the hardest to do?