Tips For Lowering Stress During National Stress Awareness Month

Lower Stress By Practicing Gratitude

Did you know that your mind and body can benefit from practicing gratitude? Constantly feeling overwhelmed and negative can increase your risk of depression, heart problems, a weak immune system, and other health issues. According to the American Heart Association, many neuroscience experts believe that our brains focus on difficult feelings so that we can avoid painful situations in the future. This is called ‘negativity bias’.

To balance this natural tendency, make practicing gratitude a habit. Gratitude can lower stress, improve sleep, elevate mood, and reduce the risk of illness. So, how do we practice gratitude? You might choose to journal, keep a note on your phone, or take a moment to be mindful over your morning cup of coffee.

The AHA suggests asking yourself five daily questions:

1. What did your body do for you today? Thank your body for the walk you took over your lunch break or the ability to listen to music in the car.
2. How did you nourish yourself today? Think about the healthy smoothie you made this morning or the delicious dinner you cooked.
3. What did you accomplish today? Take a moment to thank yourself for exercising, finishing a project at work, getting outside, reading a chapter of a book, etc.
4. Who is someone meaningful in your life? Reflect on someone who made your day brighter.
5. What are you doing right now? Be present and thankful for the gift of time — including this very moment!

10 Tips For Improving Your Emotional Well-Being

With busy workdays and hectic schedules, taking time for yourself can feel impossible. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that focusing on your emotional well-being for even 10 to 15 minutes can reduce stress. Set aside time for self-care with these 10 tips:

1. Take a stroll outside – Stepping into nature and sunlight can work wonders for your mood.
2. Get moving – Whether it’s a bike ride or a run, exercise is proven to reduce stress.
3. Practice relaxation – Stretch, do yoga, or meditate to unwind and quiet your mind.
4. Embrace self-care – Make a cup of tea and enjoy a quiet activity like reading a book.
5. Check in with yourself – Reflect on how you’re feeling and what you might need.
6. Try something new – Try a new recipe, learn an instrument, or invest in another new hobby.
7. Laugh more – Put on your favorite funny movie or watch something that makes you laugh.
8. Write down a motivational lyric or quote – Place it somewhere you will see to inspire you daily.
9. Practice gratitude – Write down three things you’re thankful for throughout your day.
10. Seek support – If you’re struggling, talk to your doctor as well as loved ones.

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