Top Tips To Reduce Stress NOW!

Stress has become somewhat of a buzz word these days, and no wonder. The ever-increasing challenges we face on a daily basis combined with more and more research on the subject of stress we are seeing more and more evidence that stress plays a vital role in our health. 

In this blog I’m going to talk you through a few ways to help destress by stimulating your Vagal nerve. This will help your system make its way out of ‘Fight or flight’ mode and back into a balanced way of working.

 These are things anyone can do and should take no more than 5 minutes out of your day!

 

1. Slow down your breathing rate. Aim for 6 breaths a minute for a couple of minutes, while making sure you exhale for longer than you inhale. This should mean you breathe IN for 4 seconds and breathe OUT for 6 seconds. While breathing IN, expand your stomach rather than raising your shoulders.
2. Gargle water as loud as you can for 5-10 seconds. Do this one right after brushing your teeth!
3. Splash or submerge your face in cold water. Alternatively, after your usual shower/bath routine, give yourself a quick blast with a cold shower before you get out.
4. Smile! Even if its forced, do the biggest cheesiest smile you can manage. Do this one anywhere and at any time.