By Lizzie Streit, MS, RDN, LD 

It’s normal to feel stressed from time to time. But when stress becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can wreak havoc on your health and even hinder weight loss. 

That’s why it’s important to reduce stress levels and experiment with a variety of techniques that you can use to feel calm. In addition to following a weight loss meal plan (like one of ours!), the following tips can assist you with your weight loss goals by keeping stress levels in check. 

Tips for Reducing Stress 

1. Explore the outdoors. When in doubt, get out…in nature. Spending time outside can do wonders for your mental health. You don’t have to hike a mountain or camp in the wilderness to reap the benefits either. Just a walk outside in your neighborhood can provide a healthy dose of fresh air and help lower stress levels. If you want to have more of an outdoor experience, research hiking areas, canoeing excursions, or winter ski trails in your area and bring your dog, some friends, or family members along for the trip. 

2. Unplug from technology. Spending too much time online can increase stress levels. If you have ever “doom scrolled” on Twitter or another social media app, then you probably have experienced the stressful feelings associated with too much screen time. Try unplugging for a day or the weekend and see how your stress goes down. You’ll likely find that you feel much better when you’re not inundated with negative news or constantly checking your email. 

3. Try deep breathing or meditation. When you feel stressed out, taking deep breaths can help you calm down. Deep breathing also provides more than just immediate stress relief. Regularly practicing deep breathing or meditation may be very helpful for lowering overall stress levels. You can use online resources or phone apps, such as Calm, to get started. 

4. Exercise. Physical activity is a free, effective way to bring stress levels down. If you can do it outside, even better (see tip #1!). A simple walk over your lunch break, a quick cardio workout, or short bursts of activity throughout the day — like climbing stairs, a set of push-ups, and a walk around the block — are all great options. 

5. Have a good laugh. “Laughter is the best medicine” as the saying goes, and that definitely applies to stress relief! Disconnect from whatever is bringing stress to your life by watching a funny show, going to a comedy show, or reading a humorous novel. A good belly laugh will help you feel better and even relieve the physical tension brought on by stress. 

Note from Healthy For Life Meals: Meal planning stressing you out? Let us do the work for you! We offer one of the best healthy meal services, including both traditional and vegetarian options that are made fresh for you. Check out our menus and order today.