Here’s how to beat stress

Pallavi Joshi

Stress is a common state of mind these days that a large number of people experience frequently. And it is increasing day by day. Stress is not directly linked to progress but it is the race to success that is making us habitual of doing more than what we can do with ease. 

Challenging our capabilities is good up to an extent to test ourself and to aim high for future. However, there is a thin line between testing yourself and getting stressed. Making it a regular habit can prove harmful.

Stress may be due to work or family pressure, commuting fatigue, financial burdens, fear of missing on professional targets and other professional pressures. But to continuously be in a state of stress is harmful for both mental and physical health. 

As stress cannot be avoided, one should learn how to deal with it. These are a few things one should avoid doing when stressed:

1. Stop recollecting circumstances that led to this stress. 

2. Don’t continue doing the same work that led to this stress. Take a break.

3. Avoid taking caffeine, alcohol and nicotine to feel better.

4. Don’t skimp on sleep. Get at least eight hours of snooze time for a healthy body and mind. Don’t try to push yourself; listen to your body if it wants to rest.

5. Don’t avoid communicating or spending time with your spouse.

6. Never avoid talking to old friends when you are stressed. Talking to friends will help you feel better. 

7. Avoid being indoors all the time. Spend some time in natural surroundings. Take a walk on the beach, meditate in a garden.

8. Interact with little children when you are feeling stressed. 

9. Avoid taking medication without consulting a physician.

10. Never tune in to the sad songs or music when stressed. 

— The writer is a clinical psychologist, Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute, New Delhi