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8 ways to de-stress in no time at all!

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

It isn't awfully difficult to get rid off all that stress says Priya Nihalani.

We live in stressful times.

Work, family, finances... the reasons to stress out are many.

Here are some effective ways to get rid of it.

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1. Indulge in that creative streak

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

Always wanted to learn salsa?

Or take up painting?

Or perhaps you love to cook?

Any activity that takes you away from the humdrum of everyday life can take away your stress.

So instead of turning on the television, take up the paintbrush or the pen and let your creative juices flow.

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2. Take a walk!

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

Literally!

If you've had a stressful day, instead of going home and brooding over it, step out and go for a walk.

The change of scene is bound to make you feel better.

And if not there are those endorphins we keep telling you about that'll lift up your mood!

Then of course there is that little side effect of weight-loss that will cheer you up further, won't it?

So what are you waiting for?

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3. Socialise

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

Ok we admit that if you've had a stressful day, meeting other people might not exactly be on the top of your agenda.

But make the effort and socialise.

There is a good chance you'll meet someone interesting and learn something new.

Not to mention that it will take your mind off that thing that's stressing you out.

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4. Be good, do good!

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

When you do good, you feel good.

Since depression, anxiety and stress involve a high degree of focus on the self, focusing on the needs of others literally helps you start thinking beyond yourself and your problems.

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5. Do not swipe that card

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

Many of us resort to making purchases when we're feeling down and out.

While retail therapy may have its supporters they aren't the ones footing your bill.

So before you swipe that card, think a million times.

The next month's statement will only make you more depressed!

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6. Try yoga and meditation

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

The therapeutic powers of the ancient Indian practice of yoga has now been recognised the world over.

Yoga not only disciplines your body but also the mind.

The fact that you also end up fitter is a bonus, is it not?

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7. De-clutter

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

Would you prefer walking into a house or a desk that has nothing but clutter or a place that's spick and span?

And before you tell us that there's a method in that madness, let us assure you that it can never apply to a cluttered desk or a home.

So keep your workplace and living space clutter-free.

Allow energy to flow freely.

Clutter invariably slows you down and stresses the mind and body without you realising it.

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8. Listen to some music

Last updated on: August 07, 2014 10:00 IST

Everyone loves music.

It could be anything from Mozart to Yo Yo Honey Singh or anything in-between.

Music therapy is a real thing. So go on, plug in the headphones and plug out the world.

According to transformation coach Col (Retd) Gaurav Chibber, "Awareness of the fact that you are getting stressed in a certain situation or company is the first and most important step, which will give you access to the knowledge that you are entering a 'Zone of Stress' and that you need to harmonize your feelings with your environment to come out of that state."