If you are anything like me, you are constantly filling your time with more and more to dos. I like to think that this high activity is where I thrive, but it means it is even more important that I have good strategies and habits for destressing. When we are in a state of stress we produce the cortisol hormone.  High amounts of cortisol has been linked with obesity, lower immune systems, and memory difficulties. I KNOW you don’t what any of that! This post is the first tip in a series to help you destress so you can live your life to its fullest.

One of my favorite ways to destress is with a bath. I rarely take the time to have a bath. I am rushing around so much that a 20 minute shower can seem like a chore let alone a relaxing bath. As an occupational therapist I am big into utilizing our sensory system to help with relaxation. A bath is surrounding your body with warmth and you are experience deep pressure, a naturally calming sensation, by laying against the tub. You can increase the relaxation even further by dimming the lights to allow your eyes to relax, read a book or listen to gentle music to allow your mind to relax, fresh flowers if you enjoy them, and my favorite tip is utilizing the properties of essential oils. Several essential oils have calming properties and you can easily add just a couple of drops to your bath to experience the effects. My favorite essential oils for relaxation include lavender, patchouli, ylang ylang, and chamomile. You can find these oils at your local health food store, make them yourself or purchase them online. I get mine through doTERRA (purchasing through this link will earn me income). When purchasing essential oils from anywhere make sure they are pure (not fragrances or any additives) and therapeutic grade is  usually best.

What are your favorite ways to destress? Decide on one activity to help you destress TODAY and tell me how it goes in the comments below. 

Need help learning to balance your life and reduce stress? Let’s work together in my one on one coaching program where we work on creating your dream life. Send me an email at danielle@danielleyeager.com to chat and see if we are a good fit.

Much love, Danielle