How Can I De-stress Without Drinking Alcohol?

Stressful situations are inevitable and real, so how do you keep your calm when you feel overwhelmed and more is being demanded of you than you can really handle? Stress levels are rising and a report revealed that more adults are experiencing extreme levels of stress than the previous year. Though many will find it easy to reach for the bottle, alcohol itself causes stress and only provides a temporary relief. 

3 Ways to Relax Without Alcohol

Exercise

It seems counter-productive to prescribe exercising when you are already worn out by stress, but physical exercise releases the tension in your muscles. It lowers the body's stress levels and stimulates the production of endorphins i.e. “happiness hormones” which is the same endorphin released when you are drinking alcohol. These are the body's natural painkillers and mood elevators which creates a “natural high” which helps to reintroduce natural levels of endorphins to your body. 

Exercising regulates your brain chemistry and mood in a healthy and natural way. Most exercises call for a bit of mental attention which when combined with the physical movement is effective for body and mind relaxation. Start with daily brisk walks, you don’t necessarily need vigorous forms of exercises to begin with. Though it might be challenging at first, you will be surprised at how it improves your overall mood. It’s even better if you can engage in organized sports as this not only help you unwind but adds some fun to the routine as well.

Hydrotherapy

Water has amazing soothing and calming effects which can help you relieve the tensions caused by stress. It also promotes relaxation and helps you sleep better at night. Water has always been an important part of ancient medicine as a source of healing it has been used to treat a number of diseases. Though hydrotherapy is often overlooked it is one of the most natural and effective ways to reduce stress. Try soaking in a warm bath or rather take a hot shower.

Meditation

Meditation is effective when it comes to dealing with stress as it can create a positive effect and reduces the levels of stress and anxiety. It is a relaxation technique which promotes self-awareness and self-control. It does not only help to reduce stress but increases your ability to resist as well. The best thing about meditation is that it does not require any special skills, just your commitment, time and practice.

Always remember you cannot always control what happens around you, but you can always control your inner rueful feelings. You will always have control over your emotions, feelings and thoughts, you can determine how you react to events. 

Learn to take control of your emotions, relax, get enough sleep and engage in the power of positive thinking and healthy self-talk. If you need help managing stress without alcohol, we are here for you. Contact us today for a free and no obligation private chat.