Busting stress

One of my goals this year is to relax more. This was also one of my goals last year. I’m pretty sure it may be a lifelong journey. I have a tendency to stress out easily. With grad school starting, I really need to channel my anxiety and cope better.

Already, I’ve been trying to take time out of my days to relax and put myself in a zen state of mind. Here’s what I’ve been trying so far:

• Working out-The week leading up to our wedding contained some of my best workouts. I had so much nervous energy and a lot on my mind, and I was able to channel all of that into my workout. Afterward, I felt accomplished and re-energized.
• Stretching-Coinciding with working out, stretching has been a great time to really clear my head. I had never been a fan of stretching, and hence, I’m about as flexible as the tin man. I realized that stretching would benefit my recovery time after workouts, and the time has been really rewarding. I spend about 10 to 15 minutes after my workout to stretch and foam roll and just let my mind clear while my heart rate comes down. I used to think stretching was uncomfortable and boring, but once I let my mind rest, it became a calming cool-down period. Since I workout before work, it’s a great time to get charged before starting my day. Hopefully soon I’ll be able to touch my toes.
• Steaming-My gym has a sauna and steam room. I’m not a big fan of the sauna, but I have grown accustomed to the steam room. I first used a steam room during a spa day on our honeymoon, and my goal is to use it at the gym about once a week. Once again, it’s just time for me to be away from responsibilities for a little while, to close my eyes and to relax. I also love how my skin feels afterwards with my pores opened.
• Saying no-This is probably the most difficult to achieve and sometimes can lead to more anxiety than it can solve, but I’m trying to prioritize everything I  have going on in my life to give myself a break if I have to say no to certain commitment requests. I tend to overwhelm myself with constant activities, and it’s exhausting to juggle a hectic schedule with so many responsibilities.

Little by little, I’m trying, and every day tests my new year’s goal. It’s only January. Let’s see how long I can remain stress free.

What are your stress busting moves?