How to step back and reduce your stress levels

Stress is one of those conditions that can affect us all. Sure – we all feel the strain in different ways, but the bottom line is that we all feel the strain at some point. Work pressures, the cost of living crisis, and trying to do much are just some of the causes that can stress you out. The effects on your physical and emotional health can start to pile up if you don't do something to ease those stress levels. So, how can you take a step back and create space for yourself?  

How stress can impact the body

The signs of stress can display themselves in different ways – based on who you are and what the situation is. And there are three broad categories that symptoms can fall under. 

Stress can lead to emotional symptoms like becoming anxious, restless, and indecisive. Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed or like you can't focus too? Linked to the emotional signs of stress are the behavioral signs. Being stressed can impact your ability to sleep and it can make you irritable. Eating too much or drinking more alcohol can also be a symptom.

The third category is physical – and these symptoms can be hugely varied. Tense muscles and a faster heartbeat are just two. But even parts of the body like your eyes react badly to stress. According to contact lens supplier Lenstore, eye symptoms can include "sensitivity to light, eye twitching, too dry or too wet eyes, blurry vision, and eye strain".

The importance of managing stress

All these signs can add to your stress. Lenstore says that "stress-related eye issues are most likely temporary" – and the same is true of other symptoms you may be feeling. 

But wouldn't it be really useful if you can keep those symptoms at bay in the first place? For your own physical and emotional well-being, managing stress is super-important. It's worth considering the societal and environmental impact of not managing your stress too. 

If you allow the strain to get the better of you and your health, it can affect those around you too. That could be at home or in the workplace – as a parent, a co-worker, or a friend. 

Top tips for managing your stress

The good news is that there are a few things that you can do to help reduce your stress levels. 

In the first instance, you can try talking to someone about the strain you're feeling. After all, a problem shared is a problem solved – as the old saying goes.

In terms of other practical tips, how about adopting some breathing exercises that only take a few minutes? Or perhaps you have the chance to get out and exercise – even if it means going for a short walk. You can also look to plan your day and make to-do lists to manage your time.

Nowadays, there is a myriad of smartphone apps that are designed to ease your stress. A lot of them will contain some of the tips listed above. But they can do extra things like help you to sleep by playing ambient music or providing easy-to-use tools to help you navigate your day.

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