10 SELF-CARE TIPS TO MANAGE EVERYDAY STRESS

Life can be stressful, there’s no denying it. Whether it’s a major crisis or a minor challenge, we can be faced with some kind of stress every day. And when it becomes consistent or overwhelming, these daily stressors can seriously compromise your overall well-being. Luckily, daily self-care practices can make it feel easier to manage the ups and downs that get thrown your way. To give you a place to start, we’ve pulled together a little self-care inspiration guide with 10 tips on how to deal with stress including some simple self-care ideas that anyone can try.

Tip 1: Get outside

Fresh air in your lungs and sunlight on your face can work wonders if you’re feeling stressed. Getting out in nature can also help you feel more grounded and connected. Next time you need to unwind, try going for a short walk or stand outside for a few minutes and see how you feel.

Tip 2: Get your body moving

Moving your body is one of the most effective tools for stress relief. It tends to take your mind off of things—whether you’re running, dancing or flowing through a yoga sequence, it’s hard to think about daily stressors when you’re focusing on what your body is doing. It’s also a great boost for your endorphins (also known as your happy hormones). As long as you’re enjoying the movement, you’re doing it right!

Tip 3: Get enough sleep 

Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for your wellbeing. Your body needs rest to function properly. If you’re not getting enough hours of sleep a night, it’s much more likely that you will find yourself feeling stressed - even over the little things. Try to make sure you’re getting the right amount of sleep - ideally 8 hours a night. 

Tip 4: Eat healthy food

Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is essential, especially if you’re feeling stressed. Your meals should be full of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean protein for energy. Avoid eating too much sugar or processed foods which can increase the stress levels in your body. Eating right will help you feel better in general, keep your overall wellbeing in check and stress at bay. 

Tip 5: Cut down on caffeine

Drinking too much caffeine can make the body feel constantly “on” and unable to relax. And relaxation is often what we’re after when it comes to self-care. Rich in antioxidants, green tea is a healthy alternative to coffee or energy drinks to keep you powering through the day without the anxious rush you may feel from these stronger sources of caffeine.

Tip 6: Take a long, hot shower or bath 

There is something so healing about taking a long, hot shower or bath. It’s our favourite way to relax and unwind at home after a long day and we love nothing more than selecting one of our favourite scents from the OC Naturals body wash range to help us fully relax. Take your pick from either Rejuvenating Rose & Patchouli or Moisturising Vanilla Ylang Ylang Invigorating Mandarin Cedarwood for a gentle wash that leaves your skin feeling healthy, soft and nourished. 

Tip 7: Create a self-care routine

Taking some alone time to relax helps to manage stress and to protect the body from the effects of stress. Having a regular self-care routine can be as simple as selecting your favourite nourishing hair care products and taking the time to wash and take care of yourself. OC Naturals hair care range includes Deep Nourishing and Silky Smooth shampoos and conditioners to nourish and care for your hair.

Tip 8: Listen to music

Sometimes, an effective way to relieve stress can be as easy as listening to your favourite song or album. Research shows that listening to music you love can help lower your stress levels - our guess is that it works even better if you have a  little dance too!

Tip 9: Meditate

Meditation is one of the best and easiest ways to help combat stress. Free guided meditation apps are a great place to start. Even as little as 5 minutes of mindful meditation is proven to go a long way. And it doesn’t need to be complicated, it can simply involve focusing on your breath with each slow inhale and exhale. 

Tip 10: Connect with friends and family 

A good support network of friends, family or colleagues can ease your troubles and help you see things in a different way. And a good laugh can help to cool down your stress response. Next time you’re feeling stressed, arrange a meetup or a call with someone in your network. Find a funny friend or watch your favourite comedy together to get the laughter going and help you unwind and relax.

Taking care of yourself and your body is the first step in managing your stress levels. Taking a closer look at your diet and daily exercise can go a long way - and so can paying attention to the body care products you’re using. To upgrade your self-care routine, try including OC Naturals products packed full of plant-based, and naturally derived and organic  ingredients to keep your hair and skin healthy and hydrated. Discover your nearest stockist today or browse the full collection online for beauty products to help you take care of yourself and relax at home.