We all understand that stress is a part of our lives, but when it gets to the point where it’s keeping you up at night, affecting your relationships and impacting your health, it’s time to take action.
At The Bardo, we know that stress affects your body and your mind. So, if you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or just a little on edge, here are some practical tips from our team to help you manage stress and get back to feeling like yourself again.
Breathe – just breathe
We know, telling someone to “just breathe” when they’re stressed can be frustrating. But controlled breathing techniques are scientifically proven to reduce stress and lower cortisol levels. Try the 4-7-8 method: inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, and exhale for eight. Do this a few times, and you’ll likely feel the tension ease a little.
Move your body – but make it fun
Exercise is one of the best stress-busters out there, but that doesn’t mean you have to sign up for a painful boot camp or run a marathon. Movement should feel good, not like punishment. Dance in your kitchen, take a walk in nature, do some yoga, or just stretch. Anything that gets your body moving will help lower stress hormones and boost your mood.
The power of ‘no’
If your to-do list looks more like a novel, it might be time to start saying “no” a little more often. Overcommitting leads to burnout, and no one wins when you’re running on empty. It’s okay to set boundaries when it comes to your time and energy. Protecting them is essential for your well-being.
Nourish your body and mind
Stress can make us crave sugar, caffeine, and processed foods, however, what your body really needs during stressful times is healthy, nourishing food. Eating a balanced diet with plenty of whole foods, healthy fats, and lean protein helps stabilise blood sugar levels, preventing the crash-and-burn effect that can worsen stress. Hydration is key, as dehydration can make stress symptoms feel even worse, so keep that water bottle close by.
Keep a regular, healthy sleep routine
While it’s not always easy to get a good night’s sleep when you’re feeling stressed, a lack of sleep can make things worse. The trick is to create a sleep-friendly routine. Try turning off screens at least an hour before bed, dimming the lights, and winding down with a book or some gentle stretching. If racing thoughts keep you awake, journaling before bed can help get them out of your head and onto paper.
Find your stress-reliever
Everyone has that one thing that instantly makes them feel better. Maybe it’s listening to your favourite music, going for a surf, gardening, baking, or even just sitting in silence with a cup of tea. Find what works for you and make it a priority.
Connection when you feel ready
A good chat with a friend can instantly lighten your mood because social connection is a powerful stress reliever. Whether it’s a quick coffee catch-up or a phone call, staying connected with loved ones helps keep stress levels in check. If you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed, talking to a professional can also help.
At The Bardo, we provide a safe, supportive environment where you can connect with our compassionate team members. We offer opportunities for meaningful connection without pressure. Our experienced professionals are here to listen, guide, and support you on your journey, helping you build resilience, rediscover yourself, and foster healthier relationships as you heal.
Mindfulness and meditation
You don’t need to sit cross-legged for hours chanting “om” to benefit from mindfulness. Simply being present in the moment through focused breathing, mindful eating, or taking a few moments to appreciate your surroundings – can significantly reduce stress. Meditation apps or guided breathing exercises can also be a great place to start if you’re new to mindfulness.
Laugh more
Laughter isn’t just fun, it’s medicine. It reduces stress hormones and increases endorphins, making you feel instantly better. So, watch a funny movie, listen to a comedy podcast, or hang out with someone who always makes you laugh. Your nervous system will thank you.
Managing stress – with help from The Bardo
Managing stress isn’t about eliminating it completely, it’s about finding ways to navigate it in a way that works for you as an individual. Small, intentional changes can add up to a big impact on your overall well-being. So, take a deep breath, prioritise yourself – you’ve got this!
To learn more about our recovery and detox retreats on the Gold Coast/Brisbane – contact us at 0411 071 146 or visit our services page on our website.
