7 Ways to Reduce Stress NOW!

Most of you know that the human body evolved over eons (that’s a REALLY long time). But did you know that what allowed us to survive over the eons is our ability to fight, run or adapt? We have this complex nervous system that is supremely and amazingly perfect to do those 3 things—fight, run away or adapt. At the most basic level, stress is the result of all the hormones in our body that ensures our survival as a species. Here’s the kicker, we don’t really live like that anymore, right? I mean, when was the last time your boss yelled at you and you literally ran as far away as possible—or got into a fight with him or her that resulted in the fittest one of you standing over the other with a rebel yell? If you did, you either got fired or you likely spent some time in jail. And yet, this is exactly what your body needs to do to release all that stress and process the hormones. So what do you do? Here are 7 ways to reduce stress right now so you don’t end up doing something that will get you arrested.

1. Deep breaths, about 10 should do it for most situations and count backwards. Counting backwards engages the part of your brain that uses reason rather than instinct. Remember all those movies where the hypnotist counts backward from 10 to get the person into a deeply relaxed state?
2. Stop drinking coffee. Yes, I really went there. Although people tell me that they drink coffee to relax, it is not a relaxing beverage. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant which causes your body to product more adrenaline—which causes more of the fight or flight urges.
3. Use posture techniques. Did you know that standing up, feet slightly apart with your arms in the air for 2 minutes will literally reduce stress and increase confidence? Try it right now. It works. If you’re worried your co-workers will think you’ve lost it, raise your arms in the bathroom or get everyone to do it with you.
4. Sing a song. If you are on the road, singing is a great way to stay relaxed and uplifted. There is scientific evidence that singing releases endorphins and oxytocin—the perfect antidote to all those stress hormones flying around. So if you are chronically stressed, join a choir, it’s good for your body and soul.
5. Get enough sleep. Millions of people don’t get enough sleep and I’m going to write a blog just about this topic. So if you CAN sleep but stay up too late working or messing with your electronics, then stop it. Put that stuff down and go to bed early so you get 8 hours. Lack of sleep causes stress hormones to get out of whack so that you can't cope as well under stressful times. 
6. Drink a relaxing herbal tea. People have been using herbs for healing since the beginning of the human race. Even the grocery store will have effective teas that relax and sooth a stressed nervous system. Get one with chamomile, passion flower, hops, or a combo. The trick is to put the tea bag (or 2) in a heat resistant jar, pour boiling water over it, and seal it with an air tight cover. Let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes and then drink. This ensures you get all the relaxing properties in the liquid rather than letting it float away in steam.
7. Smell an essential oil. Did you know that your olfactory nerves (through your nose) are directly linked into your brain and central nervous system? I’ve seen these nerves and they are surprisingly thick. Smelling an essential oil can sooth the savage beast (aka limbic system). Try lavender, rose and frankincense. 

Check out my upcoming 1 day workshop on Reverse Aging. It's going to be transformational! 

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