Summer Stress Relievers

Whether a vacation, staycation or business as usual, everyone needs a break and relief from stress. Any changes, including taking a vacation, having kids out of school for summer, even having a new baby or getting a new pet are all positive things that can cause stress. When tension starts to build up, instead of melting down, try these simple tips for stress relief:

Meditation. Sit with your eyes closed for 10-20 minutes once or twice a day. Silently repeat a word, sound or phrase. Focus on the sound of your breath and ignore intruding thoughts.

Cool off. Decompress by cooling off with water. Try splashing cold water on your face, placing a cold wet washcloth over your forehead and the bridge of your nose, taking three deep breathes and then breathe normally for five minutes.

Laugh. Go to a live comedy show, watch a funny movie and ask friends to send you funny memes they come across. Even if you don’t feel like smiling, a joke can feel pretty good.

Find greenery. Go outside, as any exposure to nature can calm your senses when the pressure mounts.

“Like a welcome summer rain, humor may suddenly cleanse and cool the earth, the air and you.”   Langston Hughes