Blow Off Some Steam with These 3 Quick Fixes

Stress is a huge part of our modern life. As such, there is a lot of information out in the world about how to manage your stress levels using tried and true methods such as meditation, massage, exercise, deep breathing and calming vacations.

All of these methods are powerful and extremely effective. That said, there are a few other amazingly potent stress busters that often get overlooked. Sometimes, when you are really stressed, the thought of exercising, meditating, or taking a vacation can actually become MORE stressful. In those moments, I like to turn to some of my less-common tricks.

Here are 3 quick fixes to help you manage your stress and blow off some steam, day after day.

Laugh!

Laughter is one of the best stress-reducers out there. Watch a few funny videos, take yourself to the movies, or go to a comedy club. Even better, visit this site on Laughing Yoga and you’ll find it silly at first, but trust me when I say you’ll end up ROFL (Rolling on the Floor Laughing). My husband is a trained Laughing Yoga Leader and I just turn to him to make me laugh!

Speak Your Mind….with integrity

Often the source of our stress is undelivered communication. Stand up for yourself, share your opinions and ideas, or have that conversation that’s been weighing on you. Remember to be curious, though. You don’t want to create more stress in the form of conflict because you were insensitive with your words. But by all means, use your words.

The idea of saying NO or creating boundaries is another great way to reduce stress. I recently did a webinar in one of my group coaching programs and I showed my clients 4 Ways on how to “Say NO with Integrity”. Download your 1-page handout on how to say NO (email not required).

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Go a Little Crazy

Shut your door and shake it off.  Let your body move wildly and unpredictably. It can be a dance party, screaming at the sky, beating on a couch cushion, or rambling for a solid minute in gibberish. Going a little crazy on purpose will help keep you from going REALLY crazy on accident.

I turn on my Apple iTunes music library and dance away when I feel anxious, worried or stressed. Just 5 minutes does the trick!

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Once you’ve released a bit of pressure, you will notice your blood pressure decrease, and you will feel a little lighter.  Your head will clear and you can resume your day with new energy and excitement.

How will you blow off some steam today?