While there are a plethora of
products and therapies and pills (and what not) to help you cope with
stress, it's not easy to find out which ones are real and which of them
are duds. So to save you the stress of doing that research we present
the Top 10 scientifically proven stress-killers to help you bid stress
goodbye.
10: Kill the Clutter
Even a layman can figure out that remaining surrounded by clutter only adds to the stress.
Lesser the clutter in house, workspace etc., lesser the clutter in your
mind. So make sure you thrive in clean, hygienic surroundings.
9: A Daily Planner
Once you have got rid of the
clutter, it's time to organise and manage the essential stuff. We all
harbour a thought in our mind that we'll remember the essential stuff
but let's face it, that doesn't really happen. Do not hesitate from
using a daily planner. Using a daily planner -- and sticking with it --
will ensure that your time is well-managed and you set your priorities correctly.
8: A Stress-busting Vacation
If the maddening hustle-bustle
of the city life is getting on your nerves, it's time to pack your bag
and escape. The initial planning may cause some stress but once you'll
out of the town, “far from the maddening crowd”, you definitely feel
better. The getaway can have a lasting impact as well.
7: Resist Caffeine
Caffeine is the most widely
consumed drug in the world. Unfortunately (and obviously), there are
side-effects and you have to be careful about them. It may help you in
staying awake, but it also makes the heart beat faster, increases blood
pressure and elevates the level of stress hormone - cortisol. Drink too
much coffee too often, and it could contribute to the development of chronic stress.
6: Listen to Relaxing Music
Music evokes both emotional
and physical responses in the listener. While heavy metal may jack you
up for a workout, soothing music can help the body and mind unwind.
However, some people say that rock and metal help them in combating
daily stress and angst in life.
5: Psychologists are your Friends
Get over with your fear of
visiting psychologists. These specialists in their domain and know how
to deal with the human mind. Psychologist these days are well versed in cognitive behavioral therapies and other psychological relaxation techniques that have been scientifically proven to reduce stress.
4: Mind your Diet
Get those burgers and fries
and samosas off your plate. It's time to include healthy stuff in your
daily diet. Consider fruits, green leafy vegetables, milk, etc. What you
eat is what you become. Junk food can play havoc with your health which
would only give you that unwanted stress.
3: Try Tai Chi
Tai Chi is an ancient form of
martial art which is often considered as Yoga in motion. While the
principles of tai chi lie in ancient Taoist concepts of self-defense, in
the modern era, tai chi is often practiced just for its amazing health
benefits. Several studies proving that Tai Chi can help kill stress
exist.
2: The Weekly Dose of Massage
Evidence exists that massages
reduces your heart beat and keeps a check on your cortisol level. While
there may not be any long-lasting physiological benefits, the trick is
done psychologically as massages reduce the perceived levels of stress.
In these times of cut-throat competition when everything moves to a lightning speed, stress has become a monster which keeps terrifying us.
