3 Tips to Lower Your Stress in 30 Seconds

December 20, 2015 ‐ Sylvaine HughsonPosted by ‐ Under: Peak Performance

Let’s get real for a moment – the holidays can be very stressful at times, especially for the high achiever. Did you know that 75 to 90% of doctor visits, annually, are associated with stress-related symptoms? The great news is that just because you may be stressed does not mean that you have to suffer endlessly because of it. Over the years, I have empowered my clients with highly effective tools and techniques to help relieve and resolve this very painful and pressing issue. I am including three quick and easy tips to help you get started below and to make the most of your holidays.

1. Shift Your Perspective

It is important to remember that perception is everything. Your mindset dictates how your body will respond to a particular situation – do you approach stressors in your life as a potential challenge and opportunity for growth or as a threat? Stress can be your ally if you are able to harness and optimize it. Doing so boosts your creativity, your resourcefulness, and can help you feel more alive. Learning how to reduce the negative stressors in your life and leverage the positive ones can produce tremendous success oriented benefits and increase your overall sense of well-being.

2. Shift Your Breath

This 30-second exercise can dramatically lower your stress level almost immediately. Check into your body. What’s your breathing like right now? Here’s the trick – start to extend your exhale so that it’s twice as long as your inhale. If we break it down: Inhale 1-2-3-4 (for a count of 4 seconds) Exhale: 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8 (for a count of 8 seconds). Don’t worry if you can’t exhale for this length of time right now – just do the best that you can. Your breathing capacity will increase over time and it will become much easier. To experience the full range of benefits – please repeat this new breathing pattern for a total of three times. Notice the changes that you begin to experience in your body – you’re feeling less stressed, right? This breathing exercise is perfect in the midst of rush hour traffic, in a meeting when you’re getting frustrated, or while listening to a friend or relative who may be overwhelming you…

3. Shift Your Behavior

Adding more tools to your tool belt is always a plus when it comes to helping you troubleshoot high stress levels. If you haven’t already tried this – experimenting with Therapeutic Grade Lavender Essential Oil can be very beneficial. It’s important to read label instructions in terms of dilution requirements, etc. but once you have done this – rubbing it on the soles of your feet before bed, sprinkling a few drops on your pillow, or simply inhaling the aroma from the bottle can be deeply relaxing and help you improve your sleep.

Ready to boost your performance and jumpstart your energy & mental clarity in 2016? Join us for a 15-Day Wellness Reboot where we’ll reset your body after the holidays and optimize your well-being as you start the New Year. We look forward to having you join us!

Here’s to lowering your stress level this holiday season – Happy Holidays!