~~How to De Stress~~

Picture it… you’re basking in the sun, pina colada in one hand, a gripping book in the other, the sound of waves lapping touch your ears, a coconut palm sways gently in the breeze. Now pinch your arm and bring yourself back to reality!

I bet you were starting to feel more relaxed already.

We all have those moments where we’re about ready to tear out our hair (or someone else’s) and it feels like everything is just getting on top of us. Now, take a deep breath because we’ve got some ideas on how to de-stress and keep you at the top of your game.

Have sex! NGEEE!!
Not only is it fun and a great way to work off extra calories but if you’re focusing on personal pleasures for you and your partner, guaranteed you won’t be thinking about any stresses of the day. Well, you shouldn’t be anyway!!

Movies
Sit yourself down in front of a DVD or head off to the movies. There’s nothing better than totally losing yourself in the big screen no matter what the genre.

Walk along the beach
The ocean has such a calming effect whether you choose to go for a walk along the beach, take a dip or just sit and take in the view. Soak in the salt air and it will seem that everything falls into perspective.

Blast your stereo
Put on some good vibe songs, sing at the top of your lungs and feel the release. For a bit of a retro vibe try 'Don’t Worry Be Happy' by Bobby McFerrin. It’s gotta make you smile.

Massage
What can I say - always my personal favourite. I wouldn’t believe anyone who says they don’t feel completely de-stressed after a body massage. Aaaah, the sweet smell of aromatherapy oils as the weight of the world drifts away from you with each touch.

Hit the shops-YES!!!
Retail therapy – truly a girl’s best friend. Experience the thrill of successful shopping; it will put you on a high for hours.

Hug an animal
It’s a proven fact that hugging an animal will bring your blood pressure down and is very therapeutic. Plus who can resist snuggling up to a cute, furry face?

Bubble bath
Light some candles, add bubble bath, immerse yourself in the warm water and then to top it all off, moisturise your skin afterwards with rich body butter from the The Body Shop (hmmm brazil nut is sure to get you thinking of summer).

Break out a sweat
Hit the gym or do some exercise – it might be the last thing you feel like doing when you’re stressed out, and instead all you want to do is hit the choccies and wine, but exercising pumps up the endorphins (your happy hormones).

Write a list
Make a note of what’s on your mind, maybe you’re freaking out about something that will never in reality happen… or write down solutions you have, even just writing it all down can help you to
clear your mind

And if none of the above has you feeling calmer, grab your credit card, jump online and book yourself a ticket to a tropical paradise!!