10 Ways to improve stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety are now a very big part of our day to day. The world is a complicated place and it complicates are daily lives within it. We are all so busy flitting from place to place and not taking the time even five minutes out of our busy schedules to breathe or practice self care. If we continue to live this way then we will hit burn out very quickly.

It’s so important that we take five, ten or fifteen minutes out of our day to rest and slow down. But, even if you can’t find the time to stop there are also ways you can still take care of your wellbeing. That's why it's good to have some stress and anxiety busters up our sleeves. So here goes:

1: Meditate - Meditation believe it or not is a science. And it is proven to reduce stress and anxiety. In cases this is almost immediate. Set a timer for two, five or ten minutes and simply concentrate on your breath. Always bringing your attention back to the breath of your mind wanders.

2: Take a mindful walk - Step outside and go for a walk. Instead of thinking about your day or it's stresses look around you. Take in your surroundings. Take note of the sounds, colours and shapes around you. Concentrating on the present moment is a great way to calm and give your mind a break.

3: Breathe - If you are in the middle of something and can't really leave or take a break away. Work for example. Then try some breathing exercises at your desk. Just sitting and counting your breath is a really easy one. Alternatively, place one hand on your tummy and another on your heart centre and feel your breath as you breathe in deeply and release.

4: Affirmations - Having some affirmations up your sleeve to repeat whenever you need is a great way to improve your mindset and make it more positive. Breathe as you say them to yourself. For example: 'I am calm, my stresses are no more'. Repeat this over in your mind often and several times each time you practice.

5: Listen to Music - Putting on some relaxing music is a great way to zone out and calm an anxious mind. It distracts you from your worries allowing your head to take a break. Try instrumental music so that you don’t need to think about the words that are being sung. Spa style music is always a good one. If you have Soundcloud then look for Serenely Elevated who offer music and meditations to listen to.

6: Drink less - If you are an anxious person then alcohols can actually heighten these feelings for several days later. You don't have to stop drinking altogether just cut back and feel the difference. It is also wise to have a glass of water between drinks if you are having a heavier night.

7: Work out - Set yourself a work out routine and stick to it. The exercise is a great way to release stress and anxiety. Try working out straight after work so that you an go home de-stressed. Alternatively some nice relaxing yoga in the evening can be very restorative.

8: Sleep - Ensure that you are getting the right amount of sleep. When we are tired we don't think clearly so Sleep is vital for a healthy mind and body. Try and get eight hours a night.

9: Stay organised - Life can often become stressful when our lives are all scattered. By being organised and having a plan can help to motivate and ensure that life doesn't get on top of you.

10: Hydrate - Keeping yourself hydrated is not only good for your health but your brain too. A dehydrated mind can't think properly.

Have a great day everyone.

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Charlotte Fay is a Meditation Teacher, Freelance Writer and Poet from Kent, UK. You can find her on Instagram: @charlofay and her books are available from Amazon in paperback and ebook.