Feeling anxious, stressed or overwhelmed? These are all normal emotions that take over the body and cripple us in our work

Traces are a natural part of life, but when they become overwhelming, they can seriously affect our physical and mental health. Fortunately, there are proven strategies we can use to manage stress and prevent it from spiraling out of control. It's important to have honest conversations about mental health.

6 Tips to Reduce Stress Anxiety

1. Practice mindfulness and meditation: Taking time each day to focus on the present moment through mindfulness or meditation can be incredibly calming and stress-relieving. These practices help calm the mind, reduce negative thought patterns, and promote a sense of inner peace. Start with just 5-10 minutes per day and work your way up.
2. Exercise regularly: Physical activity is a powerful stress buster. Exercise releases endorphins that improve mood and reduce the physical effects of stress, such as muscle tension and increased heart rate. Aim for 30-60 minutes of exercise most days, whether it's brisk walking, yoga, or taking a dance class.
3. Get enough, quality sleep: Lack of sleep can increase stress and make it harder to cope. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a calm bedtime routine, keep your bedroom cool and dark, and avoid curtains before bed. If you have trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor.
4. Adopt healthy eating habits: What you eat has a big impact on your stress levels. Focus on a balanced, nutrient-dense diet with plenty of foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and complex carbohydrates. Limit processed foods, sugar and caffeine, which can interfere with your body's stress response.
5. Contact loved ones: Strong social relationships are important for managing stress. Make time to connect with family and friends regularly, whether it's a video call, a socially distanced visit, or even a quick text. Sharing your feelings and getting support from loved ones can be incredibly comforting.
6. Practice relaxation techniques
   There are many relaxation techniques you can use to calm your mind and body, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization. Experiment to find what works best for you and practice this habit even for just 10-15 minutes each day.

Implementing a combination of these strategies can help you better manage stress. Remember, everyone experiences stress differently, so be patient with yourself and don't hesitate to seek additional support from a mental health professional if needed. With the right tools, you can learn to manage stress and improve your overall health.