Stress Management Hacks According to Science

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but being constantly stressed out isn't. When you let stress take over, it throws you off your A-game. The more stressed we are, the more vulnerable we could be! But the good news is, there are ways to hack your stress according to science. And you can't argue with science.

1. Listen to soothing music.

The key to managing stress? Relaxing while listening to soft, soothing music. And it's as effective as getting a massage! Research has revealed the benefits of massage were no greater than those of listening to relaxing music. If you're feeling frazzled, just listen to some sweet tunes to calm yourself down.

2. Start meditating.

A short meditation can bring forth a big change in your day. A study shows that practicing meditation changes your brain chemistry and can increase a person's well-being and quality of life. So before going through your long list of tasks, take a few minutes to yourself and meditate.

3. Switch to decaf.

Caffeine triggers cortisol release, the infamous hormone your body releases when you're stressed. Caffeine is also responsible for increase in anxiety and tension. Sure, a cup or two of coffee a day sounds great, but not if it means subjecting your body into overdrive.

4. Laugh more.

It's true when they say that laughter is the best medicine. A short laugh has many great short-term effects such as soothing tension, activating and relieving your stress response, and stimulating many organs. So go ahead and smile and laugh, soon you'll feel your stress fade away.

5. Stop hitting snooze. 

An extra 10 minutes in bed sure is tempting every morning, but newsflash: it doesn't really have any favorable effects to the level of energy you have for the rest of your day.  You'll just end up scrambling to finish your morning rituals and soon enough, you'll regret even pressing the snooze button in the first place. Wake up when you're supposed to wake up.

6. Stop procrastinating. 

When you put off doing the tasks you're anxious about, it only makes it harder to do them at a later time. It's best to get those things out of the way to keep you calm, collected, and more in control. It also helps you direct your energy to other important matters.

7. Do some stretching. 

Sitting at a desk for hours on end can strain your body especially your neck and shoulders. Relieve them from the unnecessary tension by doing some light stretches. Stretching loosens muscles and encourages deep breathing.

8. Do a daily affirmation.

Devise an affirmation for yourself. It could be as simple as "I am thankful for today" or  "I can handle this". Researchers from the University of California stated that self-affirmations help lower baseline cortisol levels. They also contribute to having a positive sense of self that can be a vital resource in managing stress. So the next time you feel worn out, just repeat your mantra.