Whether it is good stress or bad stress, there is just no escaping it. Stress is something that you are guaranteed to experience from time to time, no matter how badly you try to avoid it. Whether you are a student, a freelance graphic designer, an accountant, or a business manager, it is important that you learn how to manage and deal with the various stresses of life.   

Here are 7 unusual, but effective, ways in which you can attempt to relieve your stress:

1. Drink orange juice

According to WebMD, high levels of vitamin C are said to physiologically reduce your stress levels. Not only will it taste delicious, but a glass or two of orange juice will therefore also make you feel less anxious.

 

2. Chew some gum

There are many benefits to chewing gum, and one of these benefits is lower stress levels. A 2008 study, led by Australian researcher Andrew Scholey, showed that chewing gum reduced the stress hormone cortisol in study participants. They reported feeling less stressed and more alert.

3. Phone a friend

Having someone to reach out to when you are feeling anxious can help you to calm down and get those rational thoughts flowing again. A 5-minute chat with your bestie can make all the difference in the world. When you talk about your emotions out loud, you allow your fears and anxiety to be released.

4. Give your pet a rub

With most pets being loving and affectionate toward their owners, it has been said that owning a furry pet can increase your levels of happiness. According to NewsWise, “people draw more support from furry friends than spouses, human allies.” A big part of this stems from the idea that receiving unconditional love from your pet has the ability to make you feel happier and more relaxed.

5. Eat something crunchy

This relieves physical tension and will make you feel more relaxed. So, to reduce your stress, try munching on crunchy snacks like carrots, nuts, or even crackers.

6. Have a good laugh

Laughing does wonders for your body. You will be surprised to know that a bit of laughter can lighten your load mentally and physically. Laughing can enhance your intake of oxygen, and it increases the endorphins that are released by your brain. These endorphins, in turn, stimulate your heart, lungs, and muscles.

Reduce stress by having a good laugh

7. Dance

Dancing to your favourite music will not only refresh your mind, but will instantly uplift your mood and make you feel a lot less stressed.

 

Learning how to deal with stress and anxiety is a lifelong process, but it doesn’t mean that you have to sit around and wait for the stress to go away on its own. Try out some of the stress relievers mentioned above, and let us know which ones work for you!