Take some time to relax!

Here’s our top tips to help you destress during your busy schedule

April is Stress Awareness Month, and we have the top tips to help you destress from your busy schedule. Sometimes the best thing you can do when you’re stressed is to try something new to take your mind off of the stressful events life brings us.

Start a journal

Studies show that writing down your thoughts helps decrease stress levels. It also helps you focus on your goals and keeps you accountable, so get writing!

Practice yoga

Yoga is a great way to start and/or end your day. It can decrease stress by making you focus on your breathing and balance. The more focused you are during yoga practice, the less focused you are on the things that are stressing you out. You can practice it at home by following videos on Youtube, like this one, or check out a local studio near you.

Stretch at least twice a day

It’s time to loosen up! Start and end your day by stretching. Stretch your arms, legs, and bend forward to stretch your back out. It will help clear your mind and make you feel refreshed. You can find more benefits of stretching here.

Do the “Wonder Woman” pose

Have a big meeting or presentation coming up? Studies like this one from social psychologist, Amy Cuddy, show that standing in this pose gives you confidence. Simply plant your feet, put your hands on your hips, and open your shoulders. By doing this, it will help you regain the confidence you need. The more confident you are, the less stressed you are. Also, regardless of the name, men can practice this, too. (But for their sake, we’ll call it the “Superman” pose.)

Meditate (or at least close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths)

Sometimes all you need to do is remind yourself to close your eyes and breathe. Meditating in the morning can help you gather your thoughts, think about your intentions, and keep you centered for the day.

If you’re not ready to try meditating yet, try closing your eyes and taking three long, deep breaths. Make sure you are breathing with your belly for effective results.

Think positive thoughts

For every negative thought or comment, turn it around with two positive thoughts or remarks. If you keep doing it, then it will become a habit, and you’ll be in a more positive state in no time. The more positive you are, the less stressed you are.

Schedule “me time”

Sometimes all you need is to take time for yourself if you’re surrounded by people all day. “Me time” can range from a visit to AgeLess SPA for a much needed and pampering Massage or Facial, or even taking 15 – 20 minutes to read a magazine or book that you’ve been meaning to start. Let’s be honest, to take the “me time” we need, we have to literally schedule the time to do it. It’s like making a date with ourselves! #MeTime

Use essential oils

At AgeLess SPA, we love essential oils and the benefits that come with them! From aromatherapy to applying it topically, essential oils can help you destress and calm you down. Some of our favorite oils to help destress are lavender, peppermint, bergamot, and eucalyptus.

One way to use them is diffusing these oils in an essential oil diffuser. A really great diffuser recipe we like to use is a drop (or two) of lavender, peppermint, and lemon. It will leave you feeling refreshed and energized. You can also ask your massage therapist to use peppermint or lavender or even both during your massage for all day calm results.

Eat dark chocolate

Studies show dark chocolate has positive effects on your mood and can lift your spirits. Keep bite sized pieces on your desk and grab one (just one, remember you don’t want to overindulge), to lower stress levels. Ummm, yes, please!

Try acupuncture

Acupuncture isn’t just for physical pain. It’s been proven to help reduce stress. According to our acupuncturist, Samantha, you don’t have to worry about looking like a porcupine, and many of her clients fall asleep on the heated bed (definitely a favorite at the spa).
See our Acupuncture page.

Go for a walk or run

The days are getting longer, and the weather will be getting warmer (hopefully). Take advantage of Mother Nature’s beautiful days by getting out and going for a walk or run. It allows you to stretch your legs and burn some calories (bonus!)

Call a friend

Time flies by, and we can get really caught up in our work. The next time you feel stressed, call the friend that always makes you laugh. Sometimes all you need is to vent and have a good laugh.

Workout

Working out releases endorphins, which are proven to make you happy. By rising with the sun and carving out time to workout before you head off to work, you’ll have a post workout glow to you all day. Don’t have a lot of time to workout? Check out this HIIT workout you can do in less than 15 minutes which is equivalent to a long workout at the gym!

Treat yourself

Take a little time to treat yourself to something you like. Whether it’s that new lipstick you’ve had your eyes on, enjoying a glass of red wine, a new book, a new top or shoes, or even a cupcake, the possibilities are endless. (have you checked out bareMinerals Pop of Passion tinted lip balm yet? It’s the perfect spring accessory, and you can find it at our Horseheads, NY location). #YouDeserveIt

Get dressed up

Put on your favorite shoes, pick out an outfit that makes you feel good, and do your hair and makeup the way you like it. You may notice halfway through getting ready, your mood will start to lift. When you look good, you feel good!

Whether you need some time to gather your thoughts, carve out some “me time”, or get all glammed up, AgeLess SPA is here for you to help you feel your best.

– Rebecca Howe, AgeLess SPA, Marketing Specialist