8 simple and brilliant ways to relax and destress

Getting rid of stress often seems exponentially difficult. If you’re looking for a way to escape, here are some science-backed ways to decompress, even if you can’t take a vacation.

1. Get a massage.

One small study looking at the effect of back massages found that people who got them had less muscle stiffness and lower levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress.

2. Exercise regularly.

One way to relax the body is by exercising. It can help the body release mood elevating hormones, like endorphins, and reduce levels of stress hormones, like adrenaline and cortisol.

3. Take a hot bath.

According to the National Institute of Health, a warm bath can help increase blood flow, thereby reducing stiffness and pain in your joints. And less pain can mean a more relaxed body and mind.

4. Spend time with a dog.

Having a dog around comes with many benefits. Particulary, simple act of making eye contact releases the feel-good chemical, oxytocin, according to 2009 study.

5. Date.

Kissing may help reduce levels of the stress-related hormone cortisol, at least according to research by psychologist Wendy Hill at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania.

6. Take deep breaths.

Deep breathing is what the American Institute of Stress calls a “super stress buster.” This way you can help increase the supply of oxygen to your brain and stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system.

7. Tense and relax your toes.

Hold the tension for five seconds, and then slowly relaxing the muscles. This is called “progressive muscle relaxation” and researchers think it may help boost our awareness of the physical sensations associated with relaxation.

8. Close your eyes and picture your favorite vacation spot.

Zoning out can be a great way to relax. Also some psychologists advise spending about 15 minutes a day daydreaming: not only could it help you focus, they say, but as a meditation technique it could also help reduce stress.

Source: Businessinsider

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