Self-Care Habits to Reduce Stress & Anxiety
We have so many responsibilities that it is easy to forget our personal needs. When stress or anxiety starts to creep in try these healthy habits to destress and relax.
What do you do when feelings of anxiety or burnout start to creep in?
Recently my anxiety got the best of me and I had to return to my healthy habits to refocus and relax. There are many easy diet and lifestyle changes that you can incorporate to reduce stress and anxiety.
self-care habits to reduce stress and anxiety
Reduce Caffeine
I love caffeine and am not suggesting you have to cut it out, but you also shouldn’t need to run on caffeine. Too much caffeine may increase anxiety so try reducing your caffeine intake or switch to tea or matcha. This is my favorite easy iced matcha latte.
Mediate
Meditation can reduce stress by giving you a sense of calm, peace, and balance. Mediation does not have to be for long. If you told me I had to mediate 30 minutes daily I probably never would, but by add 2-5 minutes in each day it has become a helpful habit. Try using Insight timer, Calm, or Headspace.
Journal
Free journal or try using some prompts to get out your thoughts or focus on the positive. Some prompts I like to use are:
Today I…
Today I learned…
I can improve…
Today I felt…
One good thing today…
Plan out your day
Control the day, don’t let the day control you! Spend time each morning or the night before planning how you are going to use your time and remember not to put too much on your list!
Walks Outside
Walking promotes the release of endorphins that help you relax and boost your mood. Plus getting a quick change of scenery can lift your mood.
Nutrient-Dense Meals
The foods you eat can affect your mood. Prioritize real whole foods that stabilize your blood sugar and give you energy. Click here for easy healthy recipes.
Practice Grounding
When you feel overwhelmed try practicing ground. Go outside put your feet on the ground and focus on what you see, hear, and feel.
Read for pleasure
When was the last time you read for pleasure? Reading fiction can give your mind a break. Reading something you enjoy can help to take your mind off your worries.
Practice yoga
The practice of yoga can help ease anxiety and stress by focusing on the body and breath. Just 10-20 minutes can help you let go of worry. For free yoga that you can do anywhere try Yoga with Kassandra