You wake up 4am just to get ready for another day. Chores done, you quickly move to beat the city traffic. The day is long and hard, with others robbing off some stuff on you. The way back is probably tougher than going, and you reach home late and worn out. Still there are issues that require your attention before bedtime. And there is no guarantee tomorrow will be any different. This is Lagos you should know!
A bustling city, life in Lagos can be full of pressures and stresses. But stress can dominate life and rob you of your well-being and figure out a flexible set of coping strategies that work for you. These proven stress relief techniques will improve your life:
1. Get organised – Clutter creates stress and interferes with your inner harmony, not to mention making your stuff harder to find. Make your office or living space more pleasant and functional by finding a place for everything and keeping it there.
2. Set goals – Unrealistic goals just add to your stress level. If you break challenges down into smaller components, they will be easier to overcome. First figure out what you want to achieve and then set smaller steps to help you accomplish the broader task. Set a time limit on the goal and then make sure you reward yourself when you complete it.
3. Write it down – Regularly jot down your thoughts and experiences to help you better deal with the challenges of life. A journal can function as a confidant, a counsellor, a creative outlet or a sounding board. Document your successes as well as your challenges, so that you can measure your progress.
4. Eat well, feel great –When stress hits it’s easy to turn to comfort foods for relief, but good nutrition helps to keep your body healthy and makes you feel better in the long run.
5. Let it go – Harbouring anger is unhealthy and increases the stress in your life. You may be angry at yourself, angry at others or angry at the world. The best thing you can do for your health is to forgive. Decide what you can control and what you can’t and let go of anger.
6. Get tickled – Make time for fun. Laughter is our body’s natural way to release stress. Rent a funny movie, read a funny book, try something new and fun or phone a friend who makes you laugh.
7. Get into the groove – When you exercise, your body releases natural endorphins that help you feel energized. Try to get 30 to 60 minutes of exercise most days.
8. Catch some snoozes – Get between six and eight hours of sleep each night to renew yourself. Consult a doctor if you are sleeping more than 10 hours a day, because excessive sleep may be a sign of depression or other health problems.
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Comfort