Understatement of the century: this past year was rough.
Worry out the wazoo can skyrocket stress levels. (obvi!) And unfortunately, with colder temperatures and less daylight on the way, the wellness scale is bound to drop even more. Circadian rhythm disruptions, fewer physical activity opportunities, and holiday strain can add up quickly! So to learn how to stress less in preparation for the winter blues, we asked a few FitOn trainers their tips on reducing stress and practicing self-care.
Here’s what they said!
How to Stress Less: FitOn Trainers Spill the De-Stress Deets
What’s the point of sharing tips if they’re not even actionable? None! Keep in mind — all of the tips below are super attainable, free, and simple.
Stressing over de-stressing is counterproductive. So as you go through with the suggestions, try not to put any pressure on yourself to do them “perfectly.” Just do the best you can with what you got!
Amanda Gilbert Talked All Things Mind-Body Practices
Modern-day meditation teacher Amanda Gilbert recommends making your mind-body practice a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Since movement and meditation are essential to good mental health, even “if you prioritize even 5-10 minutes of meditation each day, it will change your life, period.”
Amanda also suggests building a kinder relationship with yourself, whether it’s watching the way you talk to yourself or practicing compassion when you’re under a lot of stress. Be your own cheerleader! Try not to let your inner-critic and judgment mind run the show in your head. You’re the boss after all!
Lastly, Amanda talks about the importance of creating a wind-down ritual each night before you hop into bed. You can add super nourishing, relaxing, and mindful activities that will encourage a good night’s sleep. Set yourself up for snooze success!
How to stress less– evening edition:
- Do an evening meditation like Peace Out Bedtime
- Take an Epsom salt bath
- Read a book
- Listen to relaxing music
- Organize your to-do list for the next day
- Sip on some calming herbal tea
DeAndre Said to “Just Let It Out!”
Self-compassion seems to be a popular theme and an important one at that. FitOn trainer, Deandre Sinette talks about practicing self-compassion as well by using tools like grace and kindness. You’re always growing, so mistakes are bound to happen. Instead of bashing what you could’ve done better or how you shouldn’t have messed up in the first place, “forgive yourself to move forward with your life.”
Deandre’s second tip is to call your friends and family when you need to, and don’t just talk. Really connect with your loved ones by listening deeply and providing them with the utmost love and comfort — just as you would want them to do for you.
Thirdly, practice gratitude. Make a habit of writing down something you’re grateful for every morning or journal whatever is on your heart. “Just let it out!” Studies show an attitude of gratitude can improve resilience, lower stress levels & depression, and better your well-being. Ahhhh, the power of positivity!
Consider these gratitude journal prompts:
- Who made you smile in the last 24 hours, and why?
- What’s one aspect of your health you’re most grateful for?
- List 10 qualities you love about yourself.
Vytas Shared How to Respond to Stress (Effectively!)
How to stress less 101: know how to respond to triggers. Vytas totally understands this and suggests being less reactive and more responsive. For instance, instead of immediately reacting with worry, you can use deep breathing to help you come back to center and refocus your attention on what matters. Ask yourself, “How can I respond to this situation in a productive way?” At the end of the day, stress doesn’t solve anything!
Vytas also mentions that we tend to create narratives or stories as defense mechanisms. These stories often promote pity parties, and those “everyone’s out to get me feels” to avoid facing a situation. Your brain is trying to protect you, but it backfires and causes more stress and worry. So pay attention to the stories you’re telling yourself and work to change the narrative if it’s counterproductive. Change your story! It’s way more empowering.
The last tip of the day rounds off to meditation once again! Must be important, right? Vytas says that even just 5-10 minutes every morning can be such a game-changer. Your day can run smoother, freely, and with way less stress.
Try a meditation or yoga practice with Vytas!
Wondering How to Stress Less? Stick With Positive Habits
Now you know stressing less is all about making the extra effort to avoid negative habits and sticking with ones that will help stay calm, cool, and collected. If you have trouble maintaining habits, remember that it’s a lot easier to build a habit that’s connected with an already-existing one.
For instance, put a sticky note reminder on your mirror to meditate after brushing your teeth (something you already do every day). That way, it won’t feel so difficult!
