However peaceful, loving, strong we might be; Stress is inevitable. But managing stress and de-stressing is in our hands.

When we’re stressed, hormones like cortisol flood our systems, producing the “fight or flight response” in which our Heart Rate goes up. We breathe more heavily (requiring more oxygen) and our blood vessels constrict. What’s even worse is, that it can contribute to chronic conditions. Like hypertension, headaches, as well as mental health concerns like depression and anxiety disorders.

Scientific ways to De-stress

1. Move

Walk, Jump, Dance, Practice yoga, chase your dog; Just get moving!!  Regular movement is one of the best ways to dissipate stress. As your body releases many neurotransmitters that lead to improved mood and a greater sense of well-being. These neurotransmitters include endorphins, serotonin and dopamine.

2. Breathe

Breathing exercises or even just taking a few deep breaths  can help reduce tension and relieve stress. Thanks to an extra boost of oxygen. Besides, slow-deep breaths helps in relaxing the nervous system.

3. Listen to your favourite music

Music has a soothing affect on our senses. It slows heart rate, lowers blood pressure and even decreases levels of stress hormones. Any music that you love will flood your brain with feel-good neurochemicals like dopamine.

4. Practice Bhrahmari Pranayam

Bhramari pranayama is effective in instantly calming down the mind. As the vibration instantly soothes the nerves around the brain and forehead.  It is one of the best breathing exercises to free the mind of agitation, frustration or anxiety.

5. Progressive Muscle relaxation

Our bodies and mind are connected. When we are stressed, our muscles tighten too. So relax the whole body, starting fromyour toes to the head. Eventually, your mind relaxes too! You may need to practice this a couple of times, for it to be effective.

6. Eat A Banana

Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure, which rises during times of stress. Some people find that eating a banana when they’re feeling stressed can help improve energy and recovery. And research shows that it can protect your body from the negative effects of stress, like increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

7. Practice Garudasana (Eagle pose)

Many yoga poses are known stress relievers, as they open the shoulders, relieve neck tension and do away with symptoms of stress.  Eagle pose is a prime example of how a brief asana can target back and neck tension.

8. Laughter therapy

Laughing, when you are stressed seems impossible. So, watch a funny video or a funny meme. Anything that gets you laughing. As, Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air. Thereby, stimulating your heart, lungs and muscles. And increasing the endorphins that are released by your brain.

These simple and effective tools change your biology and help you relax. But, there are other ways to de-stress too. Just do the things you love and your brain releases the happy hormones in your blood. Find your happy zone!!

Iti Jain

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