Health
These quick and easy tricks will help to de-stress you, instantly, whatever the time of day!
Today’s world is anything but calm. Stress bombards us, and if we don’t pause for a bit of peace, we risk becoming overwhelmed.
Even the smallest moment of calm can transform your outlook. Whether you follow just one of these tips or many, you can find clarity every day – in just five minutes.
In the morning
Step into your morning from a place of calm. Your day may be full of challenges but you control the energy you bring to it. Five minutes spent centring yourself will benefit you and anyone who depends on you for the rest of the day.
BODY SCAN When you wake, take a few moments to check in with your body. Close your eyes and mentally direct your attention to each part of your body, working your way down from head to toe. Be grateful for everything that’s feeling good and working well. If you encounter any aches and pains, ask yourself: what does my body need right now?
STILL AND BREATHE Breathe in. Hold it for a second or two, and now slowly breathe out. If you have a busy day coming up, deep breathing will help you focus and navigate it better. Focusing on your breath helps to calm the nervous system.
WRITE IT DOWN If thoughts and worries whizz around your mind, decanting them onto a page is a great way to create distance and a sense of control. Do this in a journal or diary.
DURING THE DAY
Whether you spend your day at home or at work, there are ways to help us focus, stay on track and get more done, regardless of what else is happening.
SET A STARTING POINT Think about your objectives today. What’s the main thing you want to achieve? Break it down into the smallest actions, then identify where to start. That’s today’s goal – not getting the whole thing done, but finding an achievable, easy place to start.
CHALLENGE YOUR MIND Simple, repetitive puzzles have great calming powers, since they put the brain into a meditative state – particularly beneficial if you’re dealing with long-term stress. Try a quick crossword, sudoku, dot-to-dot or jigsaw.
MINDFULNESS WALK Walking has been found to be effective in reducing anxiety when combined with meditation. Take a walk, engage your physical senses and stay in the moment.
FEELING SWAMPED?
Start counting. It gives a whirring mind something to latch on to, helping it to slow and relax.
In the evening
The end of the day is a time to wind down and process the day just gone. It can be a time to recharge both physically and mentally.
TAKE A TECH BREAK Blue light from screens disrupts our biological clock and isn’t recommended for a good night’s
