6 Tips to Reduce Stress and Help You Relax

Everyone suffers from stress from time to time but when you have a chronic disease, stress not only adds to your everyday burden but can often exacerbate the symptoms of your condition. While we can’t avoid stress altogether, there are ways that we help ourselves relax more and not let things stress us out so much. We’ve put together a list of six tips to help you learn how to relax more with information from skillsyouneed.com.

Worry Less

Most of us are prone to worrying about things, some more so than others. Often we find ourselves worrying about things we have no control over, or fretting about the things that could go wrong. Try to look at things more positively; instead of imagining the things that could go wrong, think about all the things that could go right. If a situation is out of your control, try not to think about it until it comes to its natural conclusion.

Do things that take your mind off worrying about a situation, even if it’s just for a short while. Your body will thank you for the distraction.

MORE: 10 tips for patients newly diagnosed with ALS

Know Your Limits

There is no pointing stressing out about things you can’t actually do or find incredibly difficult to do. Focus on the things that you can do and do well. Be proud of your accomplishments and equally, pat yourself on the back for trying things, even if you don’t achieve what you set out to do.

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Forgive Yourself

We all have things we’ve done in the past that we regret. However, they’ve passed and worrying about them in the future is not helpful for anyone. Forgive yourself and move forward. You know you won’t make the same mistake again.

MORE: Find out how assistive technology is helping ALS patients get the most out of life

It’s OK to Say “No”

Family and true friends will accept that you feel too ill or tired to do something, and they won’t mind if you back out of a planned event or get-together. If you don’t feel up to something, it’s OK to say no, don’t allow yourself to be pressured or burdened by others.

MORE: Read about six ALS therapies to improve quality of life

Exercise

Daily exercise is great for the body but it’s also good for the soul. Nothing de-stresses better than the rush of endorphins released by movement. Chose a workout that you enjoy (otherwise it’s counterproductive) and that’s within your physical limits. Setting small goals will help you gradually strengthen your body and give you a sense of accomplishment when you achieve them.

MORE: Can exercises help with swallowing for ALS patients? Find out more. 

Stimulate Your Mind

Often we stress more when we have nothing else to focus on. A new hobby can give you a new focus and act as a great distraction. It’s a great way to unwind and spend some quality time doing something you enjoy.

MORE: Read about five common misconceptions about ALS

ALS News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.