Skylar Maurice, Staff Writer

Stress is something that many people deal with in their daily lives. It may be viewed by many as something that is inevitable. Even though stress can occur, there are ways to reduce it. These ways include walking, yoga, guided imagery, aromatherapy, focusing on sleep, and taking a break from cellular devices.

In order to reduce stress, it’s important to understand what it is. According to The American Institute of Stress, stress is the body’s response to various external demands, both good and bad. A majority of people associate stress with something that causes harm to people. Positive stress, however, can increase a person’s productivity. Conversely, negative stress causes a decline in productivity. There are three components to stress: biological, psychological and social. Biological refers to the body’s physical reaction to stress. Psychological is the body dealing with and understanding stress. Social refers to the environment and relationships that impact a person’s response to stress.

One way to reduce stress is by walking. According to verywellmind, walking helps people relish in a change of scenery. Walking can be done in a multitude of ways. This includes sauntering around the office after a frustrating job, or taking a lengthy walk in the park.Walking is a straightforward activity that can help restore both the body and the mind.

Another way to lessen stress is through yoga.Yoga integrates light exercise and movement in a way that’s both physical and breath-focused. People can derive benefits from doing yoga on a regular basis in terms of their physical and spiritual health. To begin doing yoga, some may use an app, follow a program online, or go to a class.

Guided imagery can help to reduce stress as well. Guided imagery is similar to taking a brief vacation in your head. This may cause someone to imagine what their place of joy is. The imagery can be done by listening to someone through a recording, or at home by yourself if you know how to do it. Imagery involves shutting your eyes and imagining a relaxing scene. Thinking about the experiences you have in terms of your senses can help you feel as if you are in that place. 

Aromatherapy can also help to diminish stress due to its many benefits. These benefits include feeling more present and more calm. Aromatherapy can be done through candles or diffusers. Arising research implies that specific scents can lessen stress hormones and change brain activity.

Additionally, a way to lower stress is by focusing on sleep. According to Cleveland Clinic, getting a suitable quality of sleep is important. Stress intensifies when your quality of sleep is poor. This can turn into a menacing cycle. It starts when a person tosses and turns due to stress. The next day they are extra stressed, as they experience a lack of sleep. A new routine before bedtime can be developed to help with sleep. This can consist of taking a prolonged bath or drinking herbal tea.

Taking a break from your phone is another good way to minimize stress. Many people automatically scroll through the media or get drawn into gloomy news. This can become overwhelming for people when trying to stay informed. Discovering a balance in terms of news exposure can benefit people. Disconnecting and engaging in activities such as board games, puzzles or reading a book are all plausible ways to stay away from technology-based stressors.