Tips to help you feel less stressed every day.

In a culture of constant over-scheduling, it seems like everyone is stressed about something. Juggling work, family life, social life, chores, and sleep can seem like a daunting task, and many of us experience stress in our everyday lives. Unfortunately, stress affects more than just your mind. It can make you more susceptible to illness, lead to addictive behaviors, spike your blood pressure, induce headaches, and more. If you feel that you're suffering from chronic, lingering stress, here are a few ways that you can alleviate some pressure. Sneak in a workout Exercise does just as much for your mind as it does for your muscles. Whether you sign up for another class, hit the gym or simply run outdoors, find an exercise that is sustainable for you and make time for it. It will release endorphins, helping you to feel happier and releasing some stress and tension. Walk in nature Experts have found that even a short, 15-minute walk through nature is enough to lower levels of stress and fatigue. Find your nearest park or forest to stroll through and enjoy. Practice mindfulness Psychologists say that mindfulness techniques help to ground you where you are, giving you a clearer mindset to face issues at hand. Next time you start to feel stressed, start by focusing on slow, deep breaths. Then, find five things you can see around you, four things you can touch or feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This method is called a 5-4-3-2-1 exercise that helps you focus on the present. Unplug The rise of social media has brought more anxiety into our daily lives. Constantly checking our phones isn't doing us any good. Allow yourself at least an hour a day to completely unplug from technology, which can help to lower blood pressure, your heart rate, and give you an immune boost. Confront the stressor Stress is often associated with avoidance. For example, if you find yourself avoiding opening a bill, the most effective way to reduce your stress is to confront what you are avoiding. You'll put the issue behind you and you'll learn that you're okay after facing the stressor. While you focus on lowering your stress, leave your insurance in the capable hands of Bell Black Insurance. We serve all insurance needs for those in Idaho Falls, Island Park, Driggs, Victor, Swan Valley, Ashton, and the neighboring communities in Idaho, as well as Jackson and Star Valley in Wyoming.