Let’s face it, stress can come at any moment. Sometimes the quickest way to remove anxiety from your day is by allowing yourself to take a break.

Here are some ideas to help you relax when you begin to feel overwhelmed. 

Pamper Yourself 

Treat yourself to a spa treatment. It’s always relaxing to have someone give you a manicure or pedicure. Or, if you haven’t had a massage in a while, this is the perfect time to indulge and let your body just relax. Do you have a special event that you are getting all dressed up for? Make an appointment with your hairdresser and let her give you a fantastic style for your party. 

Make a To-Do List 

Sometimes, trying to remember everything you want to accomplish can become very stressful. Make a list of everything and then cross it off as you complete it. It sounds simple, but there is a feeling of relief each time you check an item off of your list. 

Talk with a Friend 

How many times have you called a friend, or met them for lunch, and notice your mood is uplifted almost immediately? Talking or spending time with friends allows you to laugh, share and vent. All of these actions are excellent ways to have some fun and eliminate stress. 

Exercise 

Now you might be saying that you are too tired to exercise. However, as they say, a body in motion stays in motion. Whether it’s going for a quick workout at the gym, hopping on your treadmill, or going for a walk, your body will thank you with renewed energy. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins that can actually help transform you into a more positive frame of mind. 

Say No

We seem to always be spreading ourselves too thin. You need to allow yourself to say “No.” Give yourself permission to decline some of the invitations that you receive. It’s okay not to attend every function and to allow some time for yourself. 

Sleep/Take a Nap 

When our lives become too busy, one of the first things to suffer is our sleep patterns. We then get run-down and may even catch a cold. In order to deal with tension, you need to continue making sleep a daily priority. If you’re exhausted and you have only a limited amount of free time, set an alarm and allow yourself a short nap. The National Sleep Foundation states, “A short nap of 20-30 minutes can help to improve mood, alertness and performance”. 

Listen to Music 

Turning on some music is a fantastic way to relax. Music is food for the soul. 

Read a Book or Magazine 

Sometimes just immersing yourself in a good book or magazine can allow your brain to re-focus. It enables your mind to get away from the anxiety you feel, and turn all of your attention towards an interesting story or article. 

Watch a Movie 

A great way to lower your stress level is to lose yourself in a good movie. Whether it’s a comedy that makes you smile, or a classic film, enjoying some time for yourself and escaping the chaos of the day is a welcomed diversion. 

Controlled Breathing

Are you feeling completely overwhelmed but don’t have an extra time to unwind? Try a simple breathing technique. Close your eyes and take a deep breath in. Next, exhale all of the air out of your lungs and repeat the process 10 times. While you are practicing this deep breathing method, devote all of your attention to each motion. Slowing down your breathing is a quick and easy way to relieve tension. 

Volunteer 

One of the best ways to de-stress is by volunteering and helping others. Whether you choose to volunteer for an organization or just a one-time event, it warms the heart to aid those less fortunate.

In all things I gave you an example, that so laboring you ought to help the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that he himself said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” —Acts 20:35