It has been an emotional equivalent to a rocky marathon. We have hit the wall. As the countdown to India's 75th year of Independence begins, we can promise ourselves emotional freedom from stress. Psychologist Dr Nisha Khanna focuses on the importance of coping activities, "Let us be innovative with personal positive coping skills."
In a recent study by CARE, a non-profit organization, it was found that women are three times as likely as men to suffer from mental health problems. Dr Rangan Chatterjee, in his book, The Stress Solution, says, "Stress impacts your brain, it's essential to keep your stress levels in check. Break habits in five minutes to live healthy."
So, here are five ways to help you hit the reset button.
1. The hourly five-minute digital detox
The pandemic has made us go digital. It’s bringing in new stresses in our lives. We live in a world of non-stop stimulus. Unplug for five minutes every hour, consciously. Kanika Khandelwal Ahuja, professor of Sociology at Lady Shri Ram College, says, “You don't need the invisible stress of the smartphone. Curate and control your own life with a five-minute digital detox."
2. Green energy bathing
The nature movement is big in 2021 to reboot and de-stress, so try nature bathing or green plant meditation. You can even take green baths in your home, balcony or garden. Feel the scent of the trees, sunlight playing through the leaves. Fitness expert Manish Pole says, “A quick five-minute green plant meditation helps to unwind. Find a spot where there's greenery. Let nature enter through your senses, and feel the calm."
3. Cooling it off
If you are going crazy with worry try some cold water therapy. It's known as the diving response. Take an ice bag, and put it on your face and hands. According to Marsha Linehan, a psychologist at the University of Washington, when you cool your nostrils it calms your emotional intensity. Dr Alok Kulkarni, psychologist, says, "Stress is common in uncertain times. Small things can be easy triggers. Cold water therapy calms you down."
4. Indulge in waves of tranquillity and clapping therapy
The latest trend to de-stress is to practice anchoring and ataraxia. Anchoring helps being in the present, so try tapping your feet, or clapping your hands. The Ancient Greeks believed in 'ataraxia', or striving for tranquillity, to relax. Wellness guru Seema Midha says, "Finding serenity at a time when you can't control things, brings immediate solace."
5. Doodle away the blues
Self-limiting thoughts can sabotage your day. The mind is a powerful tool, so, to beat stress, just pick pen and paper, and start scribbling. This method is also called 'graphotherapy,' and just a simple, squiggly "phone cord" doodle works wonders. Spiritualist Rohini Singh, who uses Zentangle to heal, says, "Doodling and scribbling promote 'creative aimlessness' that brings instant calmness."
Super Tip: Brain gymnastics or brain gym movements relax the brain. Try using brain treadmills, puzzles, and math games that relax the mind.