This is an article “Cost-free Stress Relievers” by Marc Primo
There’s no questioning how 2020 reached the top of the charts as one of the most stressful years in human history. Halfway through the year, we have all experienced a crazy pandemic that forced many into either their homes or hospitals, and made huge dents in our wallets. If you are one of those individuals who think they are nearing the peak of the stress meter due to the lack of budget, here are a few good alternatives to manage mind and body fatigue that all cost nothing!
Whether you are looking for some short-term crutches or the best stress reliever practices around, you’ve stumbled upon the right article. Most of these can get you positive effects and better resilience as you face whatever challenges life throws at you.
Tried and tested by people who have only good things to say about them, these cost-free stress relievers may just be what you need to somehow finish off 2020 with a smile on your face and an extra spring in your step.
A breath of relief
Most of us know the benefits of breathing exercises by now but only a few really know how to do it properly. First, let’s discuss how it helps.
By taking in an ample amount of oxygen into your body with every focused breath, you are able to get a calming physiological effect that makes your body more defensive against chronic stress. Try some diaphragmatic breathing exercise by simply sitting still or lying down, relaxing your shoulders, and placing one hand on your belly and the other on your chest.
Take a slow and deep breath for two seconds and breathe out for another two through the mouth while slightly pressing on your abdomen. This practice increases your lung capacity and regulates your oxygenation for better stress management and more body benefits. Plus, you can do this anywhere, anytime and especially when you feel like a shadow of anxiety is creeping up behind you.
Relax your muscles
Progressive muscle relaxation or PMR is another free and proven way to get yourself feeling better after a bout with tension or body aches. You can simply do this by tensing and relaxing your muscles a couple of times to get that calming feeling in seconds. Try it regularly so that you can learn how to adjust and avoid any unnecessary muscle tension or cramping.
PMR is also good for those who are in the final trimester of pregnancy as it is also a proven way to make childbirth easier. Not only do your muscles get the well-deserved rest it needs after a long day’s work for two, your mind also sets itself free from stress as you prepare for a good night’s sleep.
Get woke on meditation
There are many forms of mediation around but for newbies who want to get instant stress relief without all the nitty gritty of it, learning the basics is actually good enough. Learn how to focus on something (your breathing is an easy one for this), that frees your mind from the busy thoughts of the day, then try scanning your body by being aware of its different sensations whether a source of tension or relaxation.
As you perform focused breathing and body scanning, try repeating a mantra of positive thought to yourself, constantly affirming a valuable truth via the power of suggestion. This is an efficient way to convince yourself that all is well and places you in a more relaxed state.
Doing these simple steps can greatly help you relieve stress in no time and slowly improve your meditation skills for improved mind and body wellness.
Stress is everywhere and is inevitable but there are plenty of ways to get rid of it like a light switch that can instantly be turned on and off. While there are wellness coaches out there that can promise more fruitful results for your whole well-being, you can simply take a break and do these basic exercises that won’t cause you a penny but promise to give you awesome results.