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If you often feel overwhelmed by daily problems or a stressful job, you’re not alone. Anxiety, sadness, and depression are all negative emotions that influence your life and how you interact with other people. However, before turning to psychologists and miraculous pills to “fix” you, why don’t you start by simply taking some time alone?
No matter how much you love your partner, children or your job, sometimes you feel the need to unwind by yourself. Don’t be afraid to simply unplug and take a few days off just for yourself, doing the things that give you pleasure or trying out new activities. Here are some easy ways to boost your levels of energy and recharge your batteries so that you can go back to your “real life” and all of its daily concerns.
1. Practice Yoga or pilates
You don’t have to do these activities on a regular basis unless you find them relaxing but trying out one session is a cheap and easy to way to blow off some steam, remove all your negative thoughts, and work on your body at the same time.
If you’re not a fan of gyms or sports clubs, you can perform these activities in the comfort of your own home with minimum equipment and investments. All you’ll need is an exercise mat, an instructional DVD, and some comfortable clothes.
Both Yoga and pilates will work on your body posture, stretch your bones, improve your breathing, and help you clear your mind. You can easily get into the mood by listening to some relaxing music or blowing off some scented candles.
2. Read
Honore de Balzac used to say “Reading brings us unknown friends”, and friends are always there for you when you need them. However, don’t just stop at what you’re normally into – whether we’re talking about novels, poetry or scientific papers.
Reading opens up a whole new universe of unknown things that need to be explored. Don’t be afraid of indulging in romantic novels, science magazines or even the most popular ones in the fishing industry. You’ll always stumble across an exciting story or article that will expand your knowledge in a particular area.
3. Cut down on processed foods
Although delicious, most processed foods are rich in calories, fats, and sugar that will ultimately take their toll on your body. Dilated pores, acne, high blood sugar, tiredness, fatigue, weight gain, and lack of energy are but a few of the things you will experience after a diet rich in processed foods.
If you want to take care of yourself properly, you also need to work on your body, and this starts with healthier food choices. Introduce more fresh fruits and veggies in your daily diet, as well as clean sources of protein such as organic chicken, turkey, beef, eggs, and fish meat.
4. Spend more quality time with your pets
If you own a dog now it’s the perfect opportunity to take it for a long walk in the park or even for an entire day off wandering into the woods. Prepare some snacks and proper equipment and explore nature’s beauty alongside your best friend.
Petting your animal or even spending some time alone with it will boost your energy and increase the levels of serotonin, the happiness hormone. This can positively affect your mind by eliminating stress and providing comfort.
5. Write down your fears and worries
Although you won’t be able to face all your demons at once, it would be beneficial to make a list with the things that scare you the most in this life. You can start fighting your deepest worries by simply identifying them and their source.
Take one problem at a time and try to do something that will bring you closer to solving it once and for all. Make amends with your family members or friends, become more self-conscious or even start exercising to get back in shape and eliminate your insecurities.
6. Go for a swim
Thalassotherapy represents the use of seawater to improve your health. The practice is quite common amongst those who want to blow off some steam, relax, recover after surgeries, clear their minds, and take a break from negative thoughts.
Going for a swim two-three times a week will not only tone your body, increase your endurance, and help you build up some muscles but it has also proved beneficial in fighting anxiety and stress.
About The Author:
Cristina Vulpe is a former veterinarian turned content marketer. She’s a full-time project manager with a love for everything SEO and the online media. In her spare time, you can find her reading in an armchair with a nice cup of tea and her beloved cat in her lap.
