Everyone deals with stress, but it can be difficult to manage when it starts to accumulate. If you’ve noticed that stress is continuing to affect your mood and getting in the way of your everyday responsibilities and activities you enjoy, then you may want to take action to lower your stress levels. Here are some tips to try.

Let it All Out

Stress often forms because you simply have many thoughts or worries going on in your brain, causing you to feel overwhelmed. One of the best ways to relieve stress is by talking to a trusted friend or loved one about what’s going on in your life; they don’t need to give advice, just listen. Other effective ways to let go of stress are to write about your thoughts and feelings, try stress therapy San Jose CA or start exercising regularly to release the tension in your body.

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is the practice of staying present and letting go of worries about the past or present. Examples of mindfulness activities include deep breathing, meditation and yoga. Although the greatest benefits of mindfulness can be seen after continued practice, deep breathing and meditation can be used any time you’re feeling stressed. By focusing on your breathing and emptying your mind, you ground yourself and prevent your mind from getting lost in a spiral of worries.

Take Time for Things You Enjoy

Stress can make you feel like you don’t have any time to spare for leisure activities, but it’s important to make time in your busy schedule for your favorite hobbies simply because they make you feel good. Examples include anything from playing a sport to watching television to just spending time with friends and family. Carving out even a small amount of time for hobbies can be a reprieve from daily stressors.

Don’t let your worries get in the way of your life. By finding outlets to manage your thoughts and feelings and relieve tension, you can take control of your stress.