4 Tips for a Stress-Free Day

Nobody likes being under stress, but most of us regularly undergo stress without even thinking about it. While you might be used to a stressful environment, that doesn't make it any better for you or your body. Try a few tips that you can do in just 30 seconds to destress:

1. Breathe in. Breathe out.

This may seem lame. Or even too simple, but it works. Take a slow inhale to fill your lungs. Feel the inhale go into your low belly and up into your torso and chest. Simply slowing your breath will actually create feelings of calm and relaxation in your body. Exhale and let the breath out.

2. Listen to Your Body

You know when you don't feel normal. Your body gives you those signals for a reason. While you continue to inhale and exhale pay attention to your body. Do you feel warm? Cold? Pressure anywhere? Don't react to what you feel positively or negatively, just recognize that feelings. For example, if you're hot then you're hot.

You may notice a variety of sensations all at once or simply notice your butt sitting comfortably in your chair. You can do this for one inhale-exhale or stay with this longer if you'd like.

3. Focus on Your Breathing

Refocus on your breathing. Inhale-exhale. Notice the air filling and leaving your lungs as your breath. Do this a few times until you feel present in the moment and then...

4. Go About Your Day

This quick and calming pause should help you to re-engage with your world with a new sense of calm and focus. Try to maintain this feeling of groundedness that you just created. If you notice stress returning, simply follow these 4 steps again.