From Forest Bathing to Biofeedback Therapy: Nine Alternative Ways to Reduce Stress

Stress Awareness Month has been held every April since 1992 to raise awareness of the causes and cures for our modern-day stress epidemic. It is the time when we have an opportunity for an open conversation on the impact of stress. Dedicated time to removing the guilt, shame, and stigma around mental health. To talk about stress, and its effects and open up about our mental and emotional state with friends, families, colleagues, and professionals.

Top Tips for Stress Reduction and Wellness During Stress Awareness Month

Stress affects people in different ways, and one of the most effective approaches to mitigating its impact is by harnessing the power of nature, science, and technology. This April, the United Kingdom comes together to observe Stress Awareness Month, recognising the need to address stress and its adverse effects on mental and physical health. DH Lifelabs, an innovator in air purification and non-toxic home goods technology, is committed to improving indoor air by combining the power of nature, science, and cutting-edge technology through their air purifiers, humidifiers and surface cleaners.

So what’s the big deal with stress? Well, it messes with our heads and our bodies, and that’s no good. Here are nine awesome tips for reducing stress and getting your zen on. Check it out:

• Forest bathing – sounds wild, but it’s actually a Japanese practice where you soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest. It’s been proven to lower cortisol (that pesky stress hormone) and boost your immune system.
• Biofeedback therapy – sensors that monitor your body’s functions can help you learn how to control your heart rate, muscle tension, and brain waves, which can all lead to relaxation.
• Plant-assisted therapy – not only do plants clean the air, they can also help calm your mind and boost concentration. How cool is that?
• Aromatherapy – essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot can work wonders to help you relax. Pop ’em in the bath or put a few drops on your skin.
• Sound therapy – listening to nature sounds like waves or birdsong can bring you a sense of peace and balance.
• Light therapy – exposure to natural or artificial light that mimics the sun can help regulate your body’s natural rhythms and improve your mood.
• Ecotherapy – getting outside and enjoying nature can be a huge help for your mental health.
• Grounding – connecting with the earth can reduce stress, inflammation, and promote relaxation. So kick off your shoes and go barefoot on some grass or sand.
• Bio-inspired design – bringing elements of nature into your living and working spaces can have a major impact on your wellbeing. Think green walls, natural materials, and indoor water features.

But if you’re not exactly able to frolic in the forest all day, DH Lifelabs has got your back with their Sciaire line of air purifiers. These babies release plasma ions that actively zap 99.95% of airborne pollutants, leaving your home feeling as fresh and clean as a waterfall in the middle of the forest. So take a deep breath, relax, and let DH Lifelabs do the rest.

What else could you do for Stress Awareness Month?

Talk about Stress and it’s effects – lets work together to reduce the stigma that is associated with stress by talking about the topic openly and freely with friends, family and colleagues.

Share your coping mechanisms – if something has worked for you why not share it. It might benefit someone you care about and in the meantime, it might help you take your focus off your own challenges.

Be nice to those who are stressed and anxious – we are all undoubtedly going to experience stress and anxiety in our lifetime so treat others going through it with compassion and empathy.

Look after yourself – we all need to think more about self–care. Take time out of your day to relax or do something that you enjoy. Don’t forget to exercise and eat well, even when you feel too stressed.

The most crucial thing you can do when you are stressed or anxious is to make sure you are continuing to look after yourself. Make time to relax when you need to and learn to say no to requests that are too much for you.