3 Tips for a Less Stressful Day

Stress is something that affects all of us. As we navigate a global pandemic, it is likely many of us are feeling more stress than usual. Don’t worry, not all stress is bad. It can help us prepare for important life events (such as a big job interview) or alert us to potentially dangerous situations (like driving in a big storm). However, it is so important to deal with stress or else it can take a negative toll on your health overtime.

Do you want to live a less stressful life? Try following these three tips from our team to help reduce stress on a daily basis.

1. Follow a Routine

Routines provide stability, predictability and accountability. As an added bonus, they can help ground you and are a proven way to fight stress. Routines can be especially important during times of uncertainty because it helps you realize and focus on the things you can control each day.

As you think about establishing a daily routine, make a list of the things you want to accomplish each day. Include things like chores, meals, work, exercise and downtime to relax. Then try to figure out when these tasks should occur to help you feel like you are on track. Here are a few key tips for setting a new routine:

• Wake up and go to bed at the same time each day
• Create a set time to work each day
• Try to eat meals at similar times for added consistency
• Schedule a daily time to workout

Find a routine that works for you. Some people thrive when their day is scheduled down to the minute, while others find a general to do list more helpful. Be patient with yourself as you explore what works best for your lifestyle and don’t be afraid to continue making changes to your routine until it feels just right.

2. Connect with Friends & Family

Prioritize your time with the people you love. Connecting with friends and family -- whether it’s a phone call, sharing a meal, spending time together or going for a walk -- can give you a sense of belonging and increase your self-worth. If you are establishing a routine, schedule time with your friends or family to ensure it’s on the calendar.

Social interaction is important for everyone, even those who consider themselves introverts and value their time alone. Remember, you can stay at home and still connect with the people you care about by calling them on the phone or inviting them to play an online game with you.

Building and maintaining friendships has been shown to reduce stress, depression and anxiety. It also gives you a network to turn to if you ever need help.

3. Do Something for You

Take a moment to do something kind for yourself every day. It doesn’t have to be anything big -- taking a walk, meditating for five minutes, cooking a healthy meal or calling a friend are all great examples. Prioritizing time for you will help you relax and find a moment of joy. It has also been shown to improve people’s relationships with themselves and others.

Sometimes we are so stressed out, it can be hard to figure out what we really want or need to do to take care of ourselves. If you feel like you are in this spot, do not worry, simply grab a piece of paper and start making a list of things that make you happy or feel relaxed. Next time you feel overwhelmed, pull out this list and pick one of the activities. And don’t forget to keep adding things to this list overtime. At Jackson House, some of the things are our team members’ lists include reading, cooking, hiking and photography.

We hope these tips can help you reduce some of your daily stress. If your stress is starting to feel like it is too much to manage, ask someone you trust for help. Talking to someone about how you feel, either someone from your support system or a mental health professional, can ease the weight of your stress and even start to help you feel better. Remember, sometimes stress may be a sign of something more serious. So, if it is long lasting, do not be afraid to reach out for help.