Many people do not act positively to reduce the stress in their lives until physical symptoms force them to consider how their lifestyle is affecting their wellbeing… some are not even aware that they are suffering from any form of stress until they start to get physically sick. It is important not to ignore the symptoms.
Here are 5 tips to help you reduce stress at home:
Get organised: having an organised, tidy house not only makes it easier to find things, but can help you feel more in control which can help to relieve stress. Getting things ready the night before - lunches, clothes, packing your bag, etc also helps make your mornings run smoothly and help you feel less frazzled.
Write it down: make a to-do-list of everything you need to get done. This gets all the 'stuff' out of your head, which means less worrying and you are less likely to forget what you need to do. In saying that, learn to say 'no' and slim down your schedule. Don't take on too many commitments at once.
Accept what you can't control: there are many situations in life that are out of your control, if you do not recognise that this is the case, then your stress levels are likely to rise. As a self-confessed control freak, I know that letting go can be hard, but sometimes distinguishing between what you can and can't control can really help you feel more productive and less overwhelmed.
Learn to forgive: accept that people are not perfect and that they sometimes make mistakes. By letting go of anger and resentments, you can free yourself from the negative energy. Forgiveness means that you can move on.
Make time for fun: make time to do the things you enjoy, either by yourself or as a family - read a book, go for a walk, go to the gym, get a massage, get out in the garden, or take a bath… whatever you like to do. When you are doing what you enjoy, you feel happier and will be in a better place to handle life's stressors.
We would love to hear your ideas on how to reduce stress at home.