10 Ways to De-Stress and Stay Calm
Life can be pretty stressful at times, and while we can’t always control the things around us, one thing we do have control over is how we react to stress. Chronic stress is bad for both physical and mental health, and can contribute to a variety of negative factors, including a weakened immune system and depression.
Fortunately, there are different ways that you can reduce stress levels and give yourself a much-needed break. Christina Burns and Liz Zabel, Co-Spa Directors at Emerson Resort & Spa in New York, share 10 ways to de-stress and stay calm. Their list of tips includes visiting a spa, and if you get the chance, we highly recommend checking out the destination luxury resort, which is located in the Catskills and only a two-hour drive from NYC.
But even if you aren’t able to book that spa visit just yet, there are many other ways that you can relax and find your inner zen—read on to discover them all.
1. Wake-Up Ritual
How you start your morning can determine how the rest of your day will go. Before jumping out of bed at the sound of a glaring alarm and rushing to start your day, take 5 to 10 minutes to sit quietly and focus on your breathing. You’ll soon find this practice sets the tone for a clear and open mind each day.
2. Morning Detox
Since the body is exposed to many toxins throughout the day, it helps to flush and detoxify your system at the start of your morning with tea or warm water with honey and lemon. A detox drink can help bring your body back into a healthy balance.
3. Talk a Walk on the Calm Side
Sometimes the busy holiday season doesn’t allow time for a trip to the gym before heading to the office, but even going for a 15-minute walk before work (or on the way to work) or during your lunch break can help improve cardiac health, fatigue, and tension. It’s important to give your mind and body a moment to itself.
4. Eat Smart
We’re constantly surrounded by sweets, treats, and unforgiving calories, so it’s important to balance your diet with wholesome and nutrient-filled snacks and meals that will keep you full throughout the day, helping to prevent indulging in the assortment of treats that may be in the office. Greek yogurt, legumes/beans, nuts, and quinoa are just a few examples. However, don’t be too strict about enjoying a few treats from time to time. Everything in moderation!
5. Let It Go
If you find yourself holding back any yawns (or sighs) throughout the day, try letting them go. Yawning and sighing can help to cool your brain down from clotting and is a natural way for your body to wake itself up. It also improves the circulation to your brain by carrying more oxygen through the bloodstream and moving more carbon dioxide out.
6. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
It’s important to give to yourself every now and then, and what better way than with a spa day? For a DIY spa experience, the Emerson Spa recommends taking the time to use a face mask, lighting aromatherapy candles, and putting on calming music such as instrumentals or nature-inspired melodies to help unwind. If you’re looking for a quick getaway, the Emerson Resort & Spa also offers a wide range of spa therapies inspired by the earth’s surroundings that suit the health, lifestyle, and desire of every visitor.
7. Strike a Pose
Being in constant crowds, rushing from work to events, and feasting on rich foods and desserts can oftentimes leave you feeling tired, bloated, and anxious. To change your blood flow and redirect pranic energy, lay on the floor for a few moments with your legs lifted over your head. This simple pose, Legs Up The Wall, will help relieve stress and spark the body’s inner ability to heal itself. Another pose you can try is Forward Folding—position your head below the heart to help calm the nervous system. This practice only takes five minutes and can easily be done daily.
8. Digital Detox
With endless work emails, ongoing social media chatter, and entertainment content on streaming platforms, many of us are guilty of spending too much time glued to a screen whether it’s our own mobile Smartphone, computer, or TV at home. Especially when spending time with friends, family, or loved ones, it’s best to disconnect from your devices and be present in the moment. Doing so for just an hour or two can make a difference!
Some fun and interactive activities you can do with a group include playing board games, cooking altogether, outdoor sports games, and more. Additionally, before going to bed, try settling into the evening with a book and avoid having your electronics glued to you, which will help to settle the mind and body before you lull yourself to sleep and start a new day.
9. Enjoy a Warm Bath
Going out and being social with friends and family can be great, but sometimes a soothing bath ritual at home is just what the doctor ordered. Water therapies have long been used by spas as a means for relaxation. Many Emerson Spa therapies incorporate products and professional treatments by [comfort zone]. Take a warm bath with [comfort zone] Tranquillity™ Oil to help achieve a quiet, peaceful mind and body.
The Best [comfort zone] Products Based on Your Astrological Sign
10. Plan a Vacation
Everyone deserves a little weekend or getaway. Putting a trip on the books with friends, family, or even as a solo trip in the New Year can give you something to look forward to well after all the holiday revelry is over. A future vacation can also be a perfect opportunity to reflect upon your personal resolutions and set the tone for the New Year!
For more information, visit Emerson Resort & Spa’s website and follow them on Instagram: @emersonresort
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk