Ways to Relax when stressed

The "Daily Devotionals" app for the android phone is an awesome app with some great devotionals.  They are always inspiring and share many great scriptures that go along with the story for the day.

Going through life we all get so busy at times that we can not tell up from down.  This has been a true factor in my life for the last several months.  From working a full time job, going to school full time and being a newly wed things can get a little hectic sometimes.

This week I thought I was going to pull my hair out from four exams, a paper, three quizzes and four classes with homework due everyday.  Its been a hard journey but I know it will be worth it in the end.  The devotional the other day gave some great tips for helping people with busy lives relax!  I thought I would share:


1- Invest in your relationships: Don't take friends and family for granted; these relationships need nurturing. Let people know that you appreciate them and are glad they're part of your life. Try to surround yourself with happy people.  Being around people who are upbeat buoys your own mood.  And when you are cheerful and optimistic, you give something to those around you.


2 - Take a brisk walk: Physical activity releases endorphins, the feel-good hormones in your body, which increases your sense of well-being and makes it easier to approach challenges positively.  Exercise also improves your overall health.  While you're exercising, concentrate on deep, abdominal breathing.  This will increase the amount of oxygen delivered to every cell of your body and flush toxins from your circulatory system.






3 - Meditate: Focus on an object - a flower; a tree, a cloud - and take in its wonder.  Or concentrate on a positive thought or a Bible verse.  Let feelings of gratitude fill your mind and flood your spirit.  Picture your troubles, confusion, and fears taking flight as you breathe slowly and deeply.











4 - Pray: Prayer is like an extension of meditation.  It has the same immediate benefits for body, mind, and spirit, but goes far beyond that; it is your link with your Creator and releases His power to work on your behalf.   

5 - Take Time Off: Most stress is work related.  Make times to totally disengage from work and do something that will have a positive impact.  And instead of picking up the nearest electronic devise as your default diversion, try sketching or painting, creative writing, or reading a good book - something that will stimulate you in a new way and get your creative juices flowing.




I found all of these to be very helpful.  They are simple and will make a big difference if I am feeling overwhelmed.