Take a deep breath
This is not just a cliche; it is entirely legitimate advice. Working with one's breath is an art: not everyone is able control their breathing correctly, even if they think they can. Breathing exercises are a proven way of reducing stress in a very short time. Sometimes they can even act as a reset button when you feel overworked. If you want to learn how to work with your breath, start by pausing, closing your eyes and taking repeated deep breaths. Do not rush anything and in a while you will feel a sense of release.
Write down your concerns
If your stress is caused by specific circumstances in your life, write these down on a piece of paper and start working to eliminate them one by one. Be aware that stress might not necessarily be relieved only by completing a project that bothers you but also by consistently opening up the depths of your stress and managing it. You will find the stress is not such a bugbear and it is pointless further to add to it. Either way, writing down your worries and addressing them as much as you can is an excellent way directly to eliminate distress and maintain energy.
Take a break
Recently an increasing number of people have been struggling as a result of being unable to take a break or enjoy a whole weekend without remorse for not having finished a job or done the cooking and cleaning. But overwork is one of the main causes of stress and if you cannot overcome it, you may burn out. So allow some time just for yourself - not for work, nor for home cleaning or cooking dinner (unless that is your hobby). You will see this will keep you motivated in the long run.
Do something that brings you joy
Joy is an antidote to stress. It is often enough to spend just a few minutes doing what you enjoy: you will find this an excellent anti-stress remedy. Activities that bring joy vary from person to person, but whatever it is, take your time and enjoy it whenever you get a chance. Just as with weekends: even if you don't seem able to find the time to do something you enjoy, try it anyway and see how the benefits very quickly outweigh your original assumptions.
Take a walk
Walking is the most natural type of movement. A little light exercise releases endorphins, commonly referred to as "hormones of happiness". Moreover, walking or running is also an excellent way to get the blood moving and release some nervous energy that stress sometimes causes to accumulate.
Get up earlier
Getting up an hour earlier may not be worthwhile in itself; it depends how you use these extra minutes. If you start the day relaxed and carefree, it is likely that you will go through the rest of the day in a similar mood. Get "tuned in" before you go to work. Meditation is one excellent way to do this, or you may want to spend more time on some light reading or having breakfast with your family.
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