8 Self-Care Steps If You're Feeling Stressed

If you're feeling stressed then it's a sign that increasing your self-care will benefit you greatly. If you're reading this post for some quick tips then you're' in the right place. Here is a list of simple practical ways to increase self-care even during stressful times:

Step 1: Praise Yourself For Recognizing Your Feelings- You have to acknowledge your emotions whether it's fear, sadness, etc. Don't try to suppress how you are feeling instead take this awareness that you can shift into a more peaceful well-being.

Step 2: Breathe- So you have acknowledged how you feel now take a deep breath - no really breathe in for 5 seconds- hold for 2- breathe out for 4 and focus on your breathing-this will immediately bring ease to your body.

Step 3: Time to Shift- Focus on what you want at this very moment. Imagine yourself calm, happy, healthy, loved, protected by Divine Angels, peaceful, whatever one word it is for you bring the image to mind and focus your mind on it for at least 3 minutes.

Step 4: Listen to Uplifting Music- Okay whatever your "go-to happy song" now is the time to listen. I have my favorite songs that I can listen to for an hour over and over again if I need to whenever times are hard.

Step 5: Pray -Prayer is simply asking God for help and believing that he hears you. If you are feeling stressed God knows what is going on and can give you the remedy for your particular circumstance.

Step 6: Journal- Get out a journal and write down whatever inner wisdom you get from prayer. Journaling will also help you to release unknown anxiety.

Step 7: Protect your Thoughts -Limit the amount of news you watch (especially if you are prone to depression or anxiety). Yes it's important to stay informed but I personally see how the news will recycle information so 1 hour of news is really enough. Spend the rest of your time reciting positive affirmations and staying hopeful.

Step 8 - Laugh- I know this may seem simple but seriously, when is the last time you laughed so hard your side hurt? Laughter is good for the soul and will give you a boost of healthy endorphins.

Final Word

Whenever your feeling stressed it's an opportunity to look within, ask for help from your higher power, and be kind to yourself during the process. Just in case you skipped to the bottom here is a final recap of the steps. If you try any of them comment below and I'd love to know which one helped you the most.

1. Praise yourself for recognizing how you feel