Stress increases our heart rate, increases irritability, creates panic attacks, high blood pressure, and so many other issues. No one wants to have all these problems, but sometimes it happens due to life. So why not get ahead of stress and learn to manage it? Here are 3 great ways to help get through your day and take your stress down to a minimum.

1) Exercise! Now I know what you are thinking, this means I have to go to the gym. Nope! Wrong! Great guess though. Don’t get me wrong, going to the gym is a great way to manage stress, but it’s not the only way. Physical activity will help manage stress. A walk through the park or on a trail are simple physical activity that release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and helps reduces stress hormones like cortisol.  Plus activities like this break up the normal day to day stressors we have and then help us get better sleep which helps contribute to that’s right, better mental and physical health.

2)  Now take a deep breath, hold it for 3 seconds, now release it. Do this a few more times and this will help reduce your anxiety. Stress and anxiety can walk together hand in hand so let’s take them out of the picture. Doing yoga, some deep breathing techniques, or spending a few minutes on mindfulness can significantly impact your stress level and impact your metal clarity. This is something that only takes a few minutes each day and you can do it anywhere.

3)  If you have been working hard, stress is bearing down, and you need a break. Even a night out with friends can help reduce your stress level. Positive emotions and support from your friends or family can go a long way. Talking with good friends about what is going in life can help take that weight off your shoulders. Do something fun together and laugh, whether it be a nice dinner and drinks or go to a comedy club, or even some axe throwing (it’s awesome) can help us release what is inside us.

Incorporating some of these things into our daily life can help manage stress and improve your overall mental health, leading to more balanced and fulfilling days. Control your stress, don’t let it control you.