For many people, stress is a major problem. With a hectic job, chaotic family lifestyle and bills to worry about, it’s no wonder we are so stressed out.

You might not realize it, but being stressed all the time is bad for your health. Especially, your mental health. That’s why, if your life is filled with stress, it is important that you learn how to live a less stressful life.

Of course, your life won’t ever be completely stress-free, but there are plenty of ways you can reduce the amount of stress in your life. Stress at a reasonable level is actually good for you, as it challenges us and helps us to grow as people. However, when those levels get too high, it can cause all sorts of problems.

If the idea of living a less stressful life appeals to you, then you are in the right place. Here is our guide to all the best ways to reduce and manage your stress levels:

Focus on one thing at a time

Don’t try to change everything all at once. Otherwise, you will only cause yourself more stress. Instead, take one step at a time. Focus on making one change each day.

The key to reducing your levels of stress comes from not asking too much of yourself. So instead of forcing your mind to focus on a million different things, focus on just one thing. Whether that’s finishing off a report for work or getting on top of the housework, it doesn’t matter, just make sure to focus on one thing at a time.

Get active

You have probably heard that exercise is a great stress reliever, so whenever you feel stressed, exercise.

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Hop on your bike, go for a run, head to the gym; just do something. The type of exercise you choose doesn’t have to be intensive, so meditational exercise like yoga is a good choice.

Develop a health habit

You may not realize it, but stress can be influenced by your general health. So if you don’t already eat healthily and lead a healthy lifestyle, now is the perfect time to start.

Swap sugary and fatty snacks for fruits and veggie sticks, switch soda for water, and takeaways for homemade meals. It’s amazing how much less stressed you will feel just by being healthy.

Calm yourself

What calms you down? Is it practicing yoga, taking a bubble bath or getting a Lomi Lomi massage? Is it cuddling with your partner, having sex - incredibly stress relieving, or relaxing with a good book?

We all have different ways of calming ourselves, what’s important is that you find the activity that works for you.

Have fun

Even if it’s just for five minutes, make an effort to have fun every day. Play with the kids, have a tickle fight, watch a funny movie, just do something fun that makes you laugh.

Excessive stress can be damaging to your body, so it’s important that you find ways to reduce your stress levels.