Stress affects our health in a very negative way. Whether you’re getting ready for a big horse show, or just stressed with work, we all face stress in our life. It can cause us to feel depressed and also be less productive. According to the American Psychological Association, people are mostly stressed about 5 things.
- Nation’s future – 63%.
- Money – 62%
- Work – 61%
- Political climate – 57%
- Crime – 51%.
The number one stress buster is relaxation. It’s not only meant to comfort our muscles but our mind as well. Those who take part in relaxing activities report fewer blood pressure issues and heart problems, and have a lower risk of catching cold.
Hence, it is important to know how to relax. Since we are all different, what works for one person may not work for the other.
Here are 8 things you can do to feel relaxed:
1.Aromatherapy
Scented candles and essential oils can help you feel relaxed. It’s a proven therapy that helps lower stress levels and make you feel happier.
To feel relaxed, you can use essential oils including camomile, neroli, lavender, ylang ylang or bergamot. However, some of these oils can have negative impact as well so make sure to do a bit of research.
2. Music
Research says that listening to music when you’re stressed or worried can help you feel relaxed. Music is the food of the soul. It can rejuvenite our minds and help us feel calm and composed.
However, not all kinds of music may have the same impact. Soft and slow music is said to be the most effective. However, as stated earlier, humans are different. Some may have better results listening to hard music.
3. Eat Chocolate
It may come as a surprise but chocolate can really help you feel relaxed. This is because it is rich in magnesium and research has shown that magnesium is a good stress reliever.
There’s also anandamide (neurotransmitter) in chocolate which is known to promote a feeling of peace in a person.
Lastly, the phenylethylamine in chocolate helps in raising the endorphin levels which helps in feeling relaxed.
4. Hug
As strange as it may sound, a hug can make people feel at peace. According to a research published in Psychosomatic Medicine, cuddling helps in reducing stress levels. That common phrase, have you hugged your horse today? It’s a serious question! Take the time after your ride to cuddle up with your horse and give him or her a big hug. You’ll immediately feel at ease.
Hugging a person actually increases the “love hormone” called oxytocin. This hormone helps people feel relaxed and happier.
So, hugging your partner after work or when you’re stressed can actually help you feel relaxed and even sleep better.
5. Own A Pet
According to WebMD, owning a pet can help you relax. Playing, petting or feeding a cat, dog (or horse) is said to reduce stress hormones.
Other than that, pet owners are found to have happy moods which helps them feel more relaxed than people who don’t own pets.
A pet can be a good way to also keep you busy. It can distract you from the worries of life and allow you to enjoy yourself more.
6. Laugh
Laughing has therapeutic effects. Research says that laughing it off can reduce stress levels and uplift our spirits.
Join a laugh therapy session, spend some time with your loved ones or just watch a nice comedy movie.
7. Exercise
Exercising is not everyone’s cup of tea and one can find it daunting to exercise, especially when they are stressed out. The good news is that even a minute’s workout can help you feel relaxed. A light trail ride or hack off the property can help you and your horse relax during the week.
You don’t have to hit the gym or perform heavy lifts, simply take a walk outside or even in your home or office. This gets your blood moving and helps release endorphins which can have a positive impact on the mood.
In addition to this, one can also turn to yoga. It’s a proven way to feel relaxed and also provides with many other benefits. You can join a yoga class or look at tutorials online to get started. Some asanas can be very difficult so make sure to start slow.
8. Sleep
It is important that you sleep for at least seven to eight hours a day (uninterrupted). A lack of sleep can make people feel disturbed.
You can use several techniques to fall asleep. The most important thing is to have a schedule and to sleep at night. If you sleep at odd hours, you may not be able to have a peaceful sleep.
Conclusion
These are some of the most successful and tested ways of relaxing. Remember to breathe, spend time with your horse, and take the time to just enjoy life in the moment.
