What’s your tried and true method for dealing with stress? Experts have their opinions and advice of course but many of them are not that easy to follow. 

With the costs of just about everything soaring, most of us have financial stress of some sort these days. If not our own financial woes, then that of our children, or grandchildren, which in turn causes stress for us. Stress can be a vicious circle but for optimal health, it should be managed.

Exercise Reduces Stress

One of the things that experts advise those dealing with stress is exercise. This one I can get behind as I do find there is nothing like a good long, fast-paced walk, especially when the sun is shining, to rewire my brain. The good news here is that you don’t have to belong to a fancy gym to get the required exercise. This is especially significant in light of the fact that financial issues are at the top of most peoples’ stressful list these days.

Achieving Financial Responsibility

Easier said than done, I know, but sometimes a simple spreadsheet works wonders for sorting out what is coming in and what is going out each month. Obviously, if you are spending more than you are making, you have a problem.  Especially if this is going on every month with no “end of the tunnel” in sight. It’s called living a champagne lifestyle on a beer budget, or, more simply, living beyond your means. This practice is non-sustainable, irresponsible, and very unhealthy.

I know I’m a bit of an Excel junkie but a piece of paper with two columns works just fine. Start by deciding which are necessary expenditures (like mortgage, taxes, utility bills, car payments, insurance.) Then the “nice to have” expenditures such sports programs, gym memberships, fast food and entertainment costs. Depending on how much bigger your expenditures are than your income, you then must decide which costs you can live without. Just performing this simple exercise is a way of dealing with stress. 

The trick is sticking with your decisions! It’s not advised to cut out all the fun/frivolous stuff in your life but cut back on them. For example, instead of spending $100 per week (I’m just using hypothetical numbers here) on fast food (coffee, lunches, etc.), budget for $100 per month. You just shaved off $300 per month! 

Cleaning Works for Me When Dealing With Stress

For some reason, I start cleaning like crazy when I ‘m stressed. Things that don’t get done every day, like the inside of the refrigerator, closets, etc. The sense of satisfaction when I’m done helps calm me down. Why I don’t know but it does. 

Music and Dancing Are Both Great Stress Busters

Often I see people walking with earplugs in and assume they are listening to music as they walk. That’s a great idea, my hubby does that when I’m not walking with him, he says it makes the walk go by faster. 

I like to turn up the volume on my Amazon music (free with Prime membership) playlist when I clean. 

Laugh More

I know you might think there’s not much to laugh about in your life when you are stressed out but find a way. Whether it’s hanging out with your grandchildren (mine always make me laugh) or watching a funny movie, laughter helps when dealing with stress. That’s because a good laugh boosts the immune system which in turn battles stress hormones. 

Gardening or Getting Out in Nature Work Great Too

I love gardening, so it is a form of stress relief for me. Some people may find it stressful though, and that’s ok. Getting out in nature is a great alternative if gardening stresses you out. 

Conclusion

I hope you’ve noticed that these suggestions for dealing with stress are all easy and inexpensive (free) to do. Find your own favourite method and get moving, your health depends on it. 

Feature Photo: pexels-photo-626165.jpeg