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Circumstances are not within ones control, but how you respond to them definitely is. Prolonged stress can take a toll on your well-being. It is therefore important to have effective stress relievers to calm your mind and your body. Given below are some short-term and long-term strategies.

Short-Term Strategies

These are some stress reduction tools that can lower your stress immediately.

1. Guided Imagery

It is like taking a short vacation in your mind. It involves imaging yourself in your “happy place”- of which you have real good memories. Simply close your eyes for a minute and walk yourself through that scene as though you are really there. 

2. Meditate 

Meditation brings immediate relief. There are different forms of meditation. You can develop a mantra and repeat it in your mind as you take slow deep breaths. 

3. Progressive muscle relaxation 

It involves relaxing all the muscles in your body, group by group. To practice, you can start with a few deep breaths. Then, practice tightening and relaxing each muscle group, starting with your forehead and moving down to your toes. 

4. Focus on Breathing

Just focusing on your breath or changing the way you breathe can make a big difference to your stress level. Breathing techniques can calm your body and your brain in a few minutes.  

5. Take a Walk

Walking allows you to enjoy a change of scenery, which gets you into a different frame of mind, and brings the benefits of exercise as well. 

Long-Term Strategies

It is important to create a lifestyle that will help you deal with challenges in a healthy way. 

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

Consuming a healthy diet can help you combat stress over the long period. Foods like eggs, avocado, and walnuts support mood regulation and energy balance. 

2. Make Time for Leisure Activities

Leisure activities are a wonderful way to relieve stress. Whether you find joy in caring for a garden or like making quilts, hobbies and leisure are key to living your best life.

3. Develop a Positive Self-Talk Habit

Positive self-talk can help you develop a healthier outlook. An optimistic conversation can help you manage your emotions and take positive action. 

4. Express Gratitude

Gratitude helps you recognize all the things you have to be thankful for. It is seen that grateful people enjoy better mental health, lower stress, and a better quality of life. 

5. Cut out Things That Add to Your Stress

The best way to reduce stress is to cut things that are adding to your stress. Making small changes to your daily habits could be instrumental in helping you feel better.