Stress isn’t always just a feeling that goes away over time — it can impact your mind and your body.
Feeling stressed? Here are five quick and effective ways to decrease stress right now.
1. Deep Breathing
Take a few minutes to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. This simple breathing technique can help activate your body’s relaxation response and reduce stress.
2. Physical Activity
Engage in some form of physical activity, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Whether it’s going for a brisk walk, doing a few stretches or dancing to your favorite music, exercise releases endorphins, which are natural stress reducers.
3. Mindfulness or Meditation
Practice mindfulness or meditation to bring your attention to the present moment. This can help calm your mind, reduce anxiety, and provide a sense of inner peace. There are plenty of guided meditation apps or videos available online that you can use for a quick session.
4. Listen to Soothing Music
Listen to calming and soothing music that resonates with you. Music has the power to influence our emotions and can help lower stress levels by promoting relaxation and positive feelings.
5. Connect with Nature
Spend a few minutes outdoors, if possible, and connect with nature. Whether it’s in a garden, park, or simply looking at the sky, being in nature can have a calming effect on the mind and body.
Remember, it’s essential to find what works best for you personally. Each person may respond differently to stress-reduction techniques, so feel free to experiment and find the strategies that bring you the most relief.
About Austin Oaks Hospital
Austin Oaks Hospital is a welcoming mental health facility that focuses on comprehensive psychiatric services for adults and adolescents. Our warm and home-like environment is located in Austin, TX. Here we have a continuum of psychiatric services for children and adolescents age 12-17 and for adults 18 and older.
We provide amazing treatment that aids with positive self-awareness, personal growth, crisis resolution and social skills. This helps to stabilize symptoms of depression, anxiety and other behavioral health disorders. Some of our services include adult programs, adolescent programs, express therapy and more.
To schedule a no-cost assessment with us or for further questions, please call 512-855-2624.