Most people have experienced some form of stress, which might be due to career pressures, relationship problems, a major life change, health issues, or unpleasant living conditions. It might even be due to the high standards you place on yourself, which could lead to negative self-talk and frustration.

If any of this sounds familiar, you must find ways to relax, improve your outlook, and reset your mind and body when problems arise. Here are the best ways to lower your stress levels.

Woman meditating at home in a yoga pose.

Practice Meditation

Meditation is an effective technique for calming the mind and body while improving the brain’s neuroplasticity. It can reportedly strengthen the brain’s prefrontal cortex, which can prevent overreactions to stressors and help people make more rational decisions when issues arise.

Various studies have also found that even short-term meditation can reduce cortisol (a stress hormone) in the body, causing people to feel happier and more optimistic.

If you are new to meditation, it is wise to learn more about the power of meditation at masternickeagle.com and how you can incorporate it and other effective healing therapies into your life each day.

Get Your Body Moving

Exercise is a powerful way to lower cortisol, helping to ease stress and prevent burnout. If you don’t have time to hit the gym, clear twenty or thirty minutes in your diary to embrace a gentle exercise, such as swimming or brisk walking. You might think a short amount of exercise won’t make much difference to your mental and physical health, but you would be wrong.

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America reported that a five-minute aerobic exercise will trigger anti-anxiety effects. It’s due to the brain immediately emitting feel-good neurotransmitters, instantly making people feel happier while reducing their perception of pain.

Physical activity will also provide a much-needed mental break, as it will distract the brain from a cycle of negative thoughts or a stressful task.

Wash with Cold Water

The next time you feel overwhelmed with stress or negativity, head to the bathroom to splash your face with cold water or take a cold shower. It is believed the act will boost the levels of norepinephrine in the blood by up to 300%, helping to improve a person’s mood and focus.

The initial shock of the cold water will cause cortisol levels to plummet, and the benefits will reportedly last for many hours. It’s a quick and easy way to alter your mindset.

Connect with a Loved One

It may help to reach out to a close loved one when stress strikes. Talking about your problems with a loving relative or friend may help put your worries into perspective. An outside opinion may change your outlook about a task or problem and could make it feel more manageable or less daunting.

Many scientists have also reported that socializing causes the brain to release oxytocin into the body, often referred to as “the cuddle hormone.” As a result, it can combat rising cortisol levels in the body, making people feel safer, more resilient, and relaxed.