Stress Ninja: 3 Ways to Kick Stress to the Curb

Here’s what I mean by Stress Ninja.

Chronic stress is a big deal. It can sneak up on you, and it can seriously mess with your health (mental and physical…and your appearance, too). So stress management is a very important part of a healthy lifestyle. That said, a lot of people have no idea where to start. Moreover, many stress management strategies require a big time investment. But…for many of us, a significant source if stress is the fact that we’re already in a time crunch.

Can you say: Catch-22?

So, in a previous post I started to collect ways you can deal with stress that take very little time. And that’s why I call it Stress Ninja–these strategies just slip into your life, ninja-like. Also? They kick stress’s butt.

Here are three more stress ninja moves.

1.Chew gum.

There’s a growing body of research revealing the fascinating effects of chewing gum: greater alertness, improved mood, better attention, sharper memory, and…wait for it: reduced stress. All that, and no calories (assuming you go sugarfree, of course). Not bad for the humble Chiclet.

2. Smell the roses, er, lavender.

Aromatherapy, especially lavender, has been demonstrated to improve anxiety in a variety of stressful settings, like a dentist’s waiting room, and after working a night shift. Lavender aromatherapy has the potential to reduce serum cortisol—an important stress hormone. How long does it take to light an aromatherapy candle? No time at all.

3. Load up on Omega-3.

Studies are suggesting that people with anxiety may be deficient in the omega-3 department. Replacing this insufficiency can improve symptoms of stress and anxiety. Fill your plate with fish like salmon and mackerel. Throw walnuts on, well, everything from salads to yogurt. Or take supplements. Okay, so eating fish isn’t going to make your problems go away. But if it helps you cope a little easier, feel a little better, that’s a good thing, no?

Looking for more stress management strategies? Check these articles:

• 50 Ways to Deal with Stress
• Stress Ninja: Harness Your Self-Talk & Cope With Stress
• Stressed? Just Breathe