Feeling stressed out lately? You probably already know that exercise is one of the best ways to reduce and get rid of stress; but what are some other ways you achieve mental stability? In today’s day and age, it’s pretty easy to get stressed out and overworked. Job stress, relationships, and kids are just some of the life’s everyday stressors. Throw in lack of sleep and junk food and you have a recipe for disaster. But before you spin out of control, why not take a deep breath? 
In an article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Family Physicians, it’s been stated that anxiety and depression are the most common conditions that are cited by people who are seeking alternative therapies such as exercise, meditation, tai chi and yoga (1). Why not try something like yoga that has been clinically proven to help you manage your daily troubles? Not only will yoga calm your mind, but it feels amazing on your tight and overworked muscles. You do not have to be a tree-hugging yogi to experience all the good it does for you either. Try some basic postures after your workout, or when you are stressed, and you will feel the difference right away. Simply slowing down life for 5 minutes and taking a few deep breathes will make you feel more at ease. If you have 20 minutes, you can repeat some of the postures for an extra stretch and ease on the mind. The following download contains a great sample of the Sun Salutation yoga sequence. Remember, do these postures slowly, breathe with the movement and complete them with a positive attitude!
What tips do you have for easing your mind and body from stress? Share in our comment section below.
References:
1) SY ATEZAZ SAEED, MD; DIANA J. ANTONACCI, MD; and RICHARD M. BLOCH, PhD, The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina Am Fam Physician. 2010 Apr 15;81(8):981-986.
