What are your everyday stress-busting superpowers?

Hi everyone,

It’s Sarah Higgins, Lecturer in Psychology at University of Staffordshire, here. April is Stress Awareness Month – so here’s a quick reminder of your everyday stress-busting superpowers!

Tiny tweaks = big impact! When stress pops up, try these quick wins: Breathe slowly and deeply to inhale calm and exhale stress. Stretch and move, any little movement e.g. wiggling your fingers can help to release tension.

Mini-distract: Look out of a window, and/or do something you enjoy like listening to your favourite song, even if it’s just for a few minutes these mini-resets can help relieve some of the stress.

Nature recharge: Step away from what’s stressing you, even for just 5-10 minutes. Try a quick walk outside, even a tiny dose can dial down the stress! While you’re outside, focus on three things - what you see, hear and smell. It’s a quick way to ground yourself and de-stress.

Boost your wellbeing basics: As well as tips for in the moment, remember to treat yourself kindly throughout the day, aim for a good night’s sleep, a good diet and get moving to help blast stress and set you up for success!

Don’t carry stress alone, connecting with others, like reaching out to friends/family for support can really help. Also, exploring stress-busting tools such as online communities, apps as well as reaching out for professional support when needed can give you great strategies to reduce stress.

That’s it! Little things, right now can make a difference, find what helps you to relax and make it a regular thing. You’ve got this!

Have you got any other stress-busting superpowers? Share them with us in the comments :smile: