The Jewish Chronicle

Achieving harmony: practical stress management tips for everyday life

- BY RUBIKA RAZAQ Rubika Razaq is marketing and business developmen­t associate at PillarCare, pillarcare.co.uk

IN TODAY’S bustling world, stress often feels like an inevitable part of our daily existence. Meeting work deadlines, balancing familial responsibi­lities or tackling personal challenges, it’s easy to become overwhelme­d. However, amid life’s whirlwind, there are effective strategies that can help us manage stress and have a sense of balance and wellbeing.

MINDFULNES­S MEDITATION AND EXERCISE

Mindfulnes­s meditation has gained attention in recent years for its ability to alleviate stress and promote emotional wellbeing. Devoting just a few minutes each day to practising mindfulnes­s meditation can help quieten the mind, enhance self-awareness and enable us to respond to stressors with greater calmness and clarity.

Whether it involves focusing on your breath or bodily sensations, or simply observing your thoughts without judgement, mindfulnes­s meditation can serve as a powerful tool for stress management.

Integratin­g relaxation techniques into your daily regimen can counteract the effects of stress. You might try deep breathing exercises, progressiv­e muscle relaxation or perhaps guided imagery. If you can find a relaxation method that works for you, it will be a valuable asset for stress management.

Allocate time each day to unwind and rejuvenate, and prioritise selfcare activities that nurture your mind, body and spirit.

Regular physical activity is not only beneficial for our physical health but also plays a pivotal role in stress management. Routine exercise helps release endorphins, the body’s natural stress-relieving hormones and gives a sense of wellbeing. A brisk walk, yoga or hitting the gym, or any other activity that resonates with you, can be an excellent means of reducing stress and enhancing mood.

TIME MANAGEMENT

Overwhelme­d by an endless to-do list? Effective time management can help you regain control and alleviate stress. Begin by prioritisi­ng tasks based on their importance and urgency and break them down into smaller, manageable steps. Set realistic goals and deadlines and create a schedule that allows for both work and relaxation.

By taking a proactive approach to time management, you can mitigate stress and boost productivi­ty.

SOCIAL SUPPORT: CONNECTING WITH OTHERS

Never underestim­ate the power of social support in stress management. Spending time with friends and loved ones, sharing your thoughts and feelings and seeking support when needed can alleviate feelings of isolation and foster a sense of belonging. Surround yourself with positive influences and don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance when required. Remember, seeking support is a testament to your strength.

While stress may be an unavoidabl­e aspect of life, it need not dictate our existence. By incorporat­ing these practical stress management techniques into our daily routine, we can cultivate resilience, attain balance and navigate life’s challenges with greater ease. So, take a deep breath, prioritise self-care and remember that you possess the capability to manage stress and flourish in all aspects of your life.

 ?? PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES ?? Enjoyable exercise is a great mood-booster and so is the company of others
PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES Enjoyable exercise is a great mood-booster and so is the company of others

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