7 Simple Ways to Reduce Stress Naturally

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, stress plays a part in our lives. It’s easy to think of stress as a normal part of life; everyone experiences it. But what isn’t normal is long-term stress levels that inhibit your ability to perform daily tasks. Often, we set a goal to eliminate stress, which is pretty much impossible. Stress management is the key to creating a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing that stress can take a toll on our health, let’s explore strategies to reduce stress right now.

Embrace Stress Management

I’ve learned that managing stress is critical to living a simple and healthy life. Extended periods of stress can contribute to wear and tear on the body, disrupt sleep patterns, induce muscle tension, lead to poor eating habits, affect concentration, elevate blood pressure, and even trigger inflammation. Instead of avoiding stress altogether, let’s integrate simple practices to nurture a healthy lifestyle.

Here are the 7 best strategies for managing stress naturally.

1. Create A Daily Routine

As creatures of habit, a daily routine provides us with a sense of purpose, orderliness, and calmness. Start with small, actionable steps. Envision a time of day to establish a routine —whether in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Consider what would bring you a sense of peace and joy. For me, a morning routine involving simple pleasures like opening the blinds, playing jazz music, reading a devotional or book, and sharing breakfast with my daughter sets a positive tone for the rest of the day.

It’s the little things that can bring us regular doses of happiness. Maybe it’s your morning coffee or tea, listening to your favorite song during your commute, the next chapter of a book you can’t wait to read, lying on the couch while your baby naps, or having lunch outside with a coworker. Cultivate an ideal routine that works for you to alleviate stress naturally.

2. Reconnect With Nature

Remember the feeling of walking along the beach, sitting on the warm grass under the trees, or camping by the fire pit under the night sky? Nature is great for relieving stress. When we disconnect from our hectic schedules, to-do lists, and daily responsibilities to submerge in the stillness of nature, stress seems to melt away.

Spend a few moments outdoors, breathe in the fresh air, admire the trees changing colors or swaying, and listen to the birds sing. Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished. And God has given it to us to enjoy. This reminds us to embrace life at a slower pace. We have everything we need.

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind.” Job 12:7-10

3. Deep Breathing

Stress often affects our breathing, leading to shallow breaths and muscle tension. Engaging in long, slow, deep breathing helps to calm the nervous system, lower blood pressure, and relax muscles. Create a quiet space, focus on your breath, and let go of distractions (and invading to-do list thoughts).

Try this deep breathing exercise: Sit in a comfortable position, if you prefer, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. It involves inhaling for 4 seconds, holding for 2 seconds, and exhaling for 4 seconds. Focus on the sound of your breath to drown out distractions or thoughts cluttering your mind. Make sure your phone is on silent or in another room while doing this. Fully engage in the breathing exercise. Practice deep breathing anywhere and anytime.

4. Nurture A Positive Mindset

Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial in dealing with stress. We have the ability to take captive our thoughts and shift our perspective. We have to understand when to let things go and stop dwelling on it (i.e., worrying). Which is not always easy. Meditate on uplifting quotes, phrases, or verses to promote positive thinking. Remind yourself that some things are beyond control, but maintaining inner peace is within reach.

Here are some of my favorite phrases to nurture a positive mindset:

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

5. Set Boundaries

Are there areas in your life that take up your time and energy? Recognize the areas of your life causing excessive stress and consider setting boundaries. It’s not possible to eliminate stressors, but you can choose which ones to tackle daily. Communicate your expectations, delegate responsibilities, and acknowledge your limits.

Consider lessening your load at work or in your household by asking for help or delegating responsibilities appropriately. Acknowledge your limits and practice grace, not perfection. This has been an area I personally struggled with for years. I learned to accept my limitations, put my pride aside, and ask for help. Life is a team effort, and asking for help is okay. The gift of boundaries is a great way to manage stressors and regain a sense of peace.

6. Do Something You Enjoy

Have you ever noticed that when immersed in something you love, you tend to think of nothing else? Get lost in activities you love to practice being mindful and reduce stress. Whether it’s writing, reading, music, or engaging in a hobby, these simple pleasures provide a mental break and a sense of fulfillment.

I love to curl up with a book I can’t put down, listen to jazz music, crochet or embroidery, or go for walks with my family. Set aside time to do the things you love. Is there a hobby or activity you would like to try or return to?

7. Welcome Support

If you are having tough days or stress becomes overwhelming or persistent, know there is help. Share how you feel with someone you love or trust, whether your spouse, family, neighbor, church counselor, or licensed professional counselor. There is help available. Seeking support from a mental health professional can be very beneficial. Therapists and counselors can provide coping strategies tailored to your individual needs. Please don’t allow fear or shame to keep you from seeking the help you need. You are not alone.

Incorporate these simple strategies into your daily life and witness the transformative effect on your life. Recognize your limits, respect your body’s response to stressors, and make time for relaxation. Remember, managing stress is about finding balance and creating space for peace and enjoyment.

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About the Author: Tiffany Lee is a wife, first-time mom, and former educator who warmly shares her journey to embrace the art of simple living and wellness on her blog at Truth and Beauty Co.. She strives to make simplicity not just a lifestyle but a practical and enriching guide for others to find joy, contentment, and purpose in life.