As mentioned in my previous article Modern Day Stress and How to Manage it (click to view here), in these modern times stress is a factor that is ingrained in the lives of most people. As people spend more time at home, it is vital we start to look at our homes as a sanctuary and a place of safety, one that is as stress free as possible.

Below I tell you how to manage stress levels while at home and how to make it a relaxing peaceful environment to enjoy.

1. Choose a space in your home

Most homes are filled with distractions whether it is other people or things such as technology, ready to snatch your attention. Choosing a space in your home (e.g. a corner of a room or a chair by a window) that can just be yours, free from other goings on will open your mind and body to relaxation every time you enter it.

2. Decorate your space

Ok this needs to be done with some thought – maybe don’t block a space off that is of communal use, but if the space allows try to make it your own. Think of what makes you comfortable and relaxed e.g. sitting on a cushion on the floor or on a chair maybe and decorate with such pieces. Maybe add some blankets choosing relaxing colours such as blues and greys to represent the sea.

3. Research and practise relaxation techniques

There are many relaxation techniques available nowadays from body scans to deep breathing exercises. The key is to find the one that suits you. Research techniques by asking others, watching YouTube clips or reading self-help articles and practise until you find the one that is the right fit.

4. Take note of your diet

You have probably heard by now how much mind and body are connected. A healthy body will contribute to a healthy mind and one way of keeping a healthy body is to maintain a healthy diet. Keeping up with a good portion of fruit and veg and a balanced diet rich in nutrients will make you feel better overall. To achieve this write a meal plan which you can stick to each meal time and when you do a food shop. Factor in snacks if needs be and you never know you may develop a love for cooking you never knew you had.

5. Write a happy list

We all have things in life that makes us happy and give us that feeling of content, so make a list of what does that for you. It can be anthing from watching comedy clips or baking to caring for your pet to dancing to music. If you enjoy it, list it. Then when you need a stress busting moment refer to the list and be inspired to create your own bit of happy.

6. Be kind to yourself

Being kind to others is so important but so is being kind to yourself. At the end of each day once back in your sanctuary of home, take time to reconnect with what is important and let yourself appreciate you for you.

All in all, managing stress of life in general needs some practise and patience. But by following this list you can to manage stress a little better at home which will translate into all areas of your world.