Written by Menswear Style in Health & Fitness on the 7th May 2015

Stress isn’t just a burden on your mood – it can actually be dangerously bad for your health. So if you’re finding yourself getting overwhelmed at work, at home, or even on the bus, it might be worth taking the time to figure out some tricks to lower the stress in your life. Your brain and body will thank you, and so will your family and colleagues! Below is a list of suggestions to help make your life more pleasant.

Take some time out 

You know what beats a weekend fishing trip? A mid-week fishing trip! Give yourself a day or two off during the week, take yourself away from it all and take some time out. Whether it’s a hike through the mountains or a trip to a river with your fishing rod and reels, knowing that you have chosen yourself and your health over work for just a day will make you feel incredible. Pick up some equipment from stores like MOTackle, bring some lunch, and enjoy hours of quiet. Just don’t forget to turn your phone off.  

Take time to breathe 

Yes, obviously you are breathing right now. No one is disputing that. But it’s probably not thoughtful breath. Learn how to breathe meditatively – it can improve your focus, your energy and your mood, and it will only take mere minutes out of your day. Focussed breathing really is an investment in your day-to-day performance. Not only that but it will calm you down, allow you to focus and can really clear your mind.

Take time to move 

Nothing helps reduce stress like getting out and about. Of course, it’s not possible for everyone to run a marathon each day, but you can probably still include more activity in your day than you realise. Getting up 45 minutes earlier to go for a walk, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and even getting up to speak with someone instead of just sending an email can work wonders in the long term. It also gives you mini-breaks from all your work stresses, and gives you the opportunity to escape your computer monitor for a moment. 

Take time to volunteer 

This may sound strange – reduce stress by increasing your obligations – but volunteering can have astoundingly positive impacts on your emotional and mental wellbeing. Just taking a bit of time out once a week, once a fortnight or even once a month can make you feel happier, give you something to focus on outside of work and family, and can give you a fantastic support network of other volunteers and organisations.

Take time 

Just give yourself more time – cut yourself some slack. Just allowing yourself an extra five minutes to eat your lunch outside, or letting yourself sleep in those extra 20 minutes on the weekend can do wonders. So allow yourself to enjoy your own time without always scheduling it. 

*Relaxing, Stairs, Stressed images via Shutterstock

We discuss ways you can reduce and stop stress in this guide on 5 Ways to Lower the Stress in Your Life.