5 ways to relieve stress naturally

1. Exercise 

The main way exercise helps relieve stress is by increasing endorphins, leading to the so-called “runner’s high,” Hagopian says. Endorphins are the hormones produced naturally by your brain to alleviate pain and reduce stress. Exercise also ultimately decreases the levels of hormones associated with stress, including cortisol and adrenaline. 

2. Practice relaxation techniques

Usually, when you are stressed, you breathe faster and take shallow breaths, because your heart is racing. Other people actually hold their breath, Hagopian says. Slowing down your heart rate by focusing on your breath can help.

3. Eat a healthy diet 

Another key to managing stress is your diet. Healthy nutrition is super important. Eating lots of fast food, or food with a lot of processed flour or sugar, is going to make you feel worse.

4.Connect with loved ones 

When you are feeling stressed, reaching out to your friends and family can help. Studies have found that people with less social support are more reactive to stress, exhibiting increased heart rates, blood pressure, and hormone levels, according to a 2007 review published in the journal Psychiatry. 

5. Laugh 

When you laugh, you take in more oxygen-rich air, which stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles. It also increases your release of endorphins, improves circulation, and helps you relax your muscles, which are often tense when you are stressed.