Did you know that April is the National Month of Stress? Yikes. As if we aren’t dealing with enough stress already? Instead of stressing out, even more, this month, let’s put a positive spin on the subject! Here are some tips to lessen that anxiety.
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1. Meditation
One of my favorite ways to calm down when I’m overwhelmed is meditation. Taking time to be quiet and reflect. Psalm 46 tells us to “be still.” It’s important to clear your mind and relax during stressful times! I find that I can hear promptings better when I take time to meditate.
2. Prayer and Scripture Study
Along with meditation, find time to study your scriptures and pray. During quiet time, turning to God allows me to find ways to cope with my stress. You can find answers in the scriptures. I also love the peace and comfort I feel when I pray.
3. Have Humor
I recently watched a Hope Works video titled, “Feeling Joy in the Midst of Struggle.” Abby Stephens spoke about the importance of finding humor during hard times. It is scientifically proven that laughter will relax your body! Next time you’re overwhelmed, turn on a funny show, ask your family to tell you some jokes or go to lunch with that hilarious friend. It will work wonders!
4. Exercise
Science has also shown that exercise reduces stress. If it’s difficult to find time or motivation, simply go for a walk! I also like to try stretching or doing sit-ups while I watch television. Find any way to get your blood pumping and your brain will thank you.
5. Therapy
Therapy might not be necessary for everyone, but if you are finding your stress to be too much to handle, look into it! Therapists are specially trained to help you calm down and find ways to cope. It has helped me so much that I actually wrote an entire article about it!
6. Do What You Love
When life gets crazy, make a little time to do something you love. 2 Nephi says, “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.” Heavenly Father wants us to have joy during our life on Earth! Get back into your favorite hobby and take a deep breath. You’ll be stress-free in no time!
7. Service
Turning outwards has always helped me to lessen my personal burdens. When we stop focusing so much on ourselves, life becomes easier! However, we must also learn to accept service when we’re struggling. There are people that want to help you!
8. Set Achievable Goals
I have found that stress comes when I’m not accomplishing my goals. When I shorten my to-do list and set smaller goals, I become much more motivated! Take life one step at a time. Celebrate the small accomplishments. You’ve got this!
9. Be Open
Bottling up those emotions is never a good idea. Take opportunities to speak with others and be vulnerable. Simply talking about your stress out loud is extremely helpful! I tend to think more clearly and come up with solutions faster when I talk about my problems.
10. Remember That Your Experiences Can Bless Others
Finally, don’t forget that you can be a blessing in the lives of others. It comforts me to know that I’m not going through something alone. Share your stressful experiences with people. Tell them how you coped. You can help them!
Related: What Have the Prophets Taught About Anxiety?
How are you defeating stress during a worldwide pandemic? Share this article and let your friends know!
