7 quick ways to keep calm and carry on

Want de-stress but don't have too much time? Here are quick solutions.

We all go through stressful phases in our daily life. For some, it is a rare occurrence but for many these days, stress is a part and parcel of one's routine. Keeping up with deadlines and other chores can take a toll on you not just physically but also mentally. If you are too pressed for time to indulge in a relaxing bath or to go for a spa treatment, here are a few options which are on-the-go just like you and will help calm your nerves in an instant.

Watch something funny

Laughter is a way to beat stress. It helps release the happy hormones, endorphins, and also supplies our body with more oxygen. This helps calm us down. Many people practise laughter yoga wherein one has to forcefully laugh without any reason, but if that seems unmanageable to you, watch a short, funny clip to lower your stress levels. You can even store your all-time favourite clips on your phone so that you can simply press 'play' and start relaxing.

Chew gum

If you find yourself in a stressful situation, keep gum handy. Chewing gum can help lower your stress and anxiety levels. According to a research conducted in 2008, 'Levels of salivary cortisol (a physiological stress marker) in gum chewers were lower than those of non-gum chewers by 16 per cent during mild stress and nearly 12 per cent in moderate stress.'

Swear

When things get out of hands, swearing can help release stress and anger. However, you need to be careful about this tip as abusing someone can worsen the situation, but venting in a confined space when you are alone can be therapeutic. (Read: Is swearing actually good for you health?)

Take deep breaths

This is perhaps the best way to beat stress and perhaps the most difficult to follow too. Breathing deeply can relax your mind and the extra boost of oxygen can lower your stress levels. Just focus on your breathing and take four to five deep breaths and you will feel a lot calmer.

Have green tea

Many people stress-eat, i.e. eat junk or comfort food when they are under pressure. Switch to a healthier option like having a cup of green tea to keep your calm. It is rich in antioxidants and it contains an amino acid called L-Theanine, which is known to have anti-stress effects and acts as a relaxing agent. (Read: 10 ways green tea keeps you healthy and fit!)

Listen to music

Who doesn't love music? Music can truly be therapeutic as it can quickly put you in a good mood. Create a playlist of happy or peppy songs that instantly lift your spirits and listen to them in moments of stress. Within a minute you will start to feel better. Want more? Start humming along and do a jig too if you want and you will forget about your stress soon enough. (Read: Bollywood's de-stress mantra? Music!)

Meet a friend

In a bad mood? A friend can come to your rescue. When you feel stressed, it is often a good idea to talk it out with someone to help calm your nerves. Share your worries and concerns, not necessarily to get any advice, but just to get it out of your system and you are sure to feel better. (Read: Friendship Day 2014: 10 reasons your friends can help boost your immunity)

You may also like to read:

• Stress causes, symptoms, complications and management
• 10 feel-good movies that can help beat stress
• Why some people are likelier to suffer from stress

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