Stress is always going to be lurking around, so it is important for us to have some tools in mind that we can use to protect ourselves from it and tackle it when needed. Here are just a few tools to put in your toolbox to help you stay healthy, happy, and stress-free.

1. Breathe!

Humans are programmed to use breathing to help cope with situations. Next time you are feeling stressed, stop to take a few good, deep breaths. This can help relax you immediately!

2. Eat Nutritious Meals & Drink Water

Your body needs nutrients to create energy. When we are stressed, we tend to go for unhealthy “comfort foods” and forget to drink water. So eat your fruits and vegetables and make sure to stay hydrated.

3. Exercise

Exercise helps improve self-esteem, decreases anxiety and depression, and increases endorphins in the brain, which help you feel good. Specifically, yoga is good for stress relief, due to its combination of stretching and controlled breathing that relax the mind and body.

4. Meditate

Quiet the mind by closing your eyes, focusing on your breath, and allowing yourself to be in the present moment. Meditation is known for reversing the effects of stress by allowing you to be in a calm, relaxed state that improves your overall physical and emotional well-being.

5. Prioritize & Organize

Making a to-do list to prioritize your tasks not only helps you stay organized, but it can also be motivating. In addition, organizing your surroundings, whether it is the paperwork on your desk or the laundry in your bedroom, helps de-clutter your brain.

6. Laugh

Laughing helps relax your muscles, lowers stress hormones, improves your mood, and eases anxiety. The next time you are feeling stressed, try having a good laugh!

7. Think Positive

Thinking positively and giving yourself positive affirmations helps increase self-confidence and helps you get through difficult situations and challenges. Negative thinking only adds to the stress and brings you down. So think positive thoughts to lift your spirits!

8. Sleep

Getting a good night’s sleep (7 to 8 hours) helps give you the rest you need to have energy the next day. When we are tired, we are easily agitated and it is harder for us to focus.

9. Music

Listening to music helps relax the mind and body, decreases the level of stress hormones, and allows you to explore emotions. So pump up that jam!

10. Unplug

In today’s busy world, we tend to be glued to our cellphones and computers, which add to our stress. Every once in a while, try to turn your cellphone and computer off, to truly unplug and have quality time with yourself and/or with your family. Maybe schedule that massage you’ve been needing or take a hot bath?

“In dealing with those who are undergoing great suffering, if you feel “burnout” setting in, if you feel demoralized and exhausted, it is best, for the sake of everyone, to withdraw and restore yourself. The point is to have a long-term perspective.” ~ Dalai Lama