Wellbeing
Get some tips this Dry July!
How to Relieve Stress without Booze
By Staff Writer on
Everybody has different methods of dealing with stress. Doing Dry July may be particularly difficult for those who use a drink or two to unwind at the end of the day. Here are some alternative techniques for stress management that don’t include alcohol:
Be Mindful
The buzzword in the mental health world lately is “Mindfulness”. Different mindfulness techniques include focusing on your breathing or other senses in order to clear your mind, doing an Adult Colouring Book (you can find these pretty much anywhere), and of course, meditation. These techniques can be done in no more than 15 minutes, so do them in the office if you have to. The idea is to get all the stressful things off your mind and replace them with calming thoughts, bringing you back into the present moment.
Socialise
Spend more time with friends, family and anyone who make you feel calm, relaxed and good about yourself. It’s hard to focus on your stressors when you’re surrounded by supportive, happy people. Do things with them that don’t require a lot of planning or effort, such as simply having some tea or coffee at home.
Notice yourself
Stress tends to become a passive reaction, and we can usually tell we’re stressed simply by paying attention to our bodies. Perhaps some people rely on alcohol because it numbs them and physically relaxes their body. Instead, take some time to lay down and take notice of which parts of your body are tensing up. Yoga classes will usually go through this exercise with you. Start noticing, limb by limb, where you’re tensing up. You might note something as surprising at the fact that you tense your fingers, or you’re furrowing your brow. Relax each one of your limbs and muscles before continuing with your day/night.
Exercise
You've probably already heard that exercise releases chemicals called endorphins. When they’re released, they give off a positive feeling in your mind and body, and are chemically similar to the reaction that morphine gives. Exercise is usually always a good idea, and it doesn't have to be in the form of a 10km run. Take it easy. Yoga is a wonderful tool for stress relief, as well as simply walking, cleaning the house, or mucking around with kids. Just remain active all day and you will soon feel the benefits.
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