How to Manage Stress

Hey! All You worriers and over thinkers out there (this one’s for you)!

Welcome back to another episode of “How Not to Feel Like a Tree in a Thunderstorm”! This week, we’re tackling the ever-pressing, super-serious issue of stress. You know, those experiences that makes you question your life choices while contemplating if you should eat that fifth slice of pizza?! Just so you know that we are always teaching you things but not always serious in our approach. So, for all those Karens, and Chad’s out there that take everything so seriously. This article and our style are just for you!

Step 1: Know When to Breathe (Hint: All the Time)

First off, let’s address the obvious. When stress comes knocking—like that annoying salesperson who refuses to leave your porch—take a deep breath. Seriously. Stop reading for a second. Inhale deeply like you’re about to yell, then exhale like you’re deflating a balloon. Fueled by an incredible urge to avoid an existential crisis, you just discovered the world’s simplest yet most effective stress management technique. Congratulations! You’re halfway to Zen.

Research suggests (and when we say "research," I mean countless studies found deep within Google) that deep breathing can reduce stress hormones with just a few concerted huffs and puffs. So, yes, breathe like you’re about to give birth to twin baby elephants. It works!

Step 2: Exercise: Yes, That Thing We All Pretend to Love

Let’s be real. The only marathon I want to run is the one where I binge-watch my favorite show. But fear not! Exercise doesn’t have to look like a scene from a fitness magazine. You don’t need to sweat it out on a treadmill for two hours while plotting the downfall of your workout buddy. Activities like brisk walking, dancing (badly, if need be), or even chasing your dog can release endorphins, those lovely hormones that make you feel like doing a victory lap around your living room.

So grab those sneakers—and if you can’t find them, flip-flops work, too! —and channel your inner 90s pop star because you deserve to dance like no one’s watching. Just try not to break anything. Unless it's a bad habit; then go wild!

Step 3: Laugh It Off—Seriously, Just Laugh!

Did you know that laughter can shrink your stress better than a new pair of Spanx shrinks your waistline? It's true! Next time life throws you a curveball, don’t just dodge it—grab a rubber chicken and make it the butt of the joke. Laughter releases endorphins, boosts your immune system, and makes people question your sanity; it’s a win-win!

Dive into a hilarious podcast, binge-watch a comedian’s special, or share embarrassing childhood stories with friends. You’ll find that as you laugh, stress fades into a mere whisper—kind of like your resolutions after New Year’s Eve!

Step 4: Unplug (Not Your Toaster)

In a world buzzing with notifications and endless TikTok videos, sometimes the best stress management trick is to simply turn it all off! Yes, we’re talking about the phone, the computer, and that tablet that somehow became your third arm! You don’t need another app to tell you how stressed you are. You already know—and it’s usually the moment you realize you forgot to charge your phone before heading to work.

So, plan a digital detox where you treat yourself to an actual book (remember those?) or a leisurely walk in nature. We know—what’s a “nature”?! It’s that strange green stuff outside that isn’t a parking lot. Go touch it!

Step 5: Seek Support: Because Sometimes Adulting is Hard

Finally, if you find yourself overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Stress is like that one person who always gets too close into your personal space. Even when they are gone you still feel somewhat violated. Eww! Talk to friends, family, or a professional. In fact, switching up conversations with a healthy sense of humor can lighten the load. Who knew you’d feel so much better spilling your guts over coffee and a cupcake? Or if you’re watching your figure, perhaps some Avo Toast. We got you Becky!

The Final Word on Stress

There you have it, folks! Remember, managing stress doesn’t mean you have to hold your breath and meditate while perched on a mountaintop. Just breathe, laugh, move, unplug, and know that you’re not alone in this stressful world. And while you’re at it, embrace a little chaos because let’s face it: Life is just one big CPR lesson in disguise. If you can learn to truly manage stress you will be able to ride the wave of it as opposed to feeling like its crashing on top of you.

Stay safe, stay stress-free (if that’s even a thing), stay ready, and keep those first-aid kits stocked. You never know when an emergency might arise. We are here for you too!

Team Health Industry Services