5 Ways to Regain Control During a Stressful Day

We all have bad days, but sometimes bad days can take a turn for the worst when it comes to our tolerance levels, negative thoughts and emotional health. To combat these feelings or even help prevent them from getting out of control, it’s important to remember your needs and incorporate certain actions to regain control when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

1.Take yourself out of a situation
Taking yourself out of a stressful situation might be easier said than done depending on the circumstances. However, staying in the environment — physically or mentally — will do more harm than good. If you can’t leave the area entirely, small actions can be just as fulfilling. Excusing yourself for a bathroom break or grabbing water can make a world of difference to your mood.

2. Embrace nature
Nature is the friend that can be sought out and depended on at any moment of the day or night. A change of environment is also often a fast means of combating whatever negative thoughts or emotions are swirling inside of you. So, get lost in the flowers or the lush green of the trees, embrace the wind caressing your skin, admire the reflections in the water, or appreciate how many colors the sky can hold.

3. Find a quiet place
Loud or noisy places can sometimes raise anxiety levels or become a distraction. If noisy areas are preventing you from relaxing, find a quiet place where you can feel calm and at peace.

4. Contact your support system
You don’t have to talk about exactly what’s troubling you if you don’t want to. Being able to chat with someone, even about the smallest things, can be enough to soothe and get your mind off whatever is bothering you.

5.Take a deep breath
Taking a deep breath can make the difference between a good, bad or terrible day. Breathing deeply automatically puts your mind and body in a restful and relaxed state as the body is filled with large amounts of oxygen. When your heart seems to be practicing Double Dutch or your thoughts are on track for an Olympic medal, just stop for a moment. Take a breath, close your eyes, release the breath, take another breath and feel your mind and body start to relax. Breathe as much as you need to before returning to the day at hand, and always take the time to breathe to help keep you calm.