5 Great Ways For Women to Reduce Stress in the New Year

We are busy. We are tired. We are juggling all the things. It’s what we do. But there are ways to take care of ourselves so that we can continue to rock all of the hats we wear each day.

1. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is a basic and necessary human function. Few of us get enough of it. Our brains and bodies recharge when they are resting. Getting enough sleep has many benefits and it has a huge effect on stress levels. Sleep decreases cortisol levels or the stress hormone which is responsible for the fight or flight reaction to danger. Aim to get seven to nine hours of sleep a night to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.

1. Build a Support System

When was the last time you enjoyed the company of people that do not live in your house? Solid friendships help you feel secure, connected, and more positive. Even better is building in the time weekly to force you to stop and connect with others. For some this may mean becoming part of a religious community. For others it may be joining a recreational activity or club. Whatever you choose or wherever your support system is found, set aside time to spend in the company of these people.

1. Exercise Regularly

Many people start exercising because they want to change the way they look. They often do not realize the positive psychological effects exercise has. Exercise reduces stress and boosts overall health. Exercise pumps up your endorphins which makes you feel good and improves mood. Plus, it reduces the negative effects stress has on the body including on your cardiovascular, digestive, and immune systems. Exercise can also help you sleep better.

Consider joining a gym and participating in group exercise classes. You may just meet an entirely new support system that you will look forward to being with. If you are new to exercise, take it slow and build up your fitness level. The goal is to find something you love to do. This will be motivation to keep at it.

1. Declutter

Women's stress levels are directly proportional to the amount of stuff in their homes. (mother.ly) And most of us have too much stuff in our homes. In fact, 54% of Americans are overwhelmed by the amount of clutter they have, but 78% have no idea what to do with it. (prnewswire.com)

Need motivation to declutter? Here are some benefits of getting rid of some of that stuff!

• People are more productive, less irritable and distracted in a clutter-free space.

• Relationships with the people you live with improve with less clutter.

• Increasing confidence in your decision-making skills.

• Reduced anxiety levels

• You even sleep better in a decluttered environment.

If you don’t know where to begin, read How To Declutter Fast Tips

1. Learn to Say No

Lower your stress by setting boundaries for your schedule and your time. I read somewhere once that when faced with an opportunity or decision, if it’s not a "Hell, Yes!" It’s a "No." This means that if you are asked to do something and you have a choice, if you don’t really want to do it, don’t. Simply say no.

We live busy lives. Most of us are already too overwhelmed to add anything into our lives that we don’t really desire. Learn to say no.

This year, focus on some of these great ways to reduce stress which will not only make you happier, but it will have a positive impact on your overall health.

Jenn writes at her blog healthyhappyimpactful.com. She’s a mom of three looking to learn and grow. Check it out if you love helpful tips on health, family, and personal growth.