Stress Less in 2013

It may seem like no matter what you do to attempt to relax—yoga, massage, dance classes, drinking green tea—you still feeling insanely stressed out. To help you start the New Year off properly, here are some tips on how to slow down and stress less.

1. Slow yourself down, if only for a couple minutes.

Being stressed out affects our everyday life in surprising ways. When you’re stressed, you may feel restless, anxious, and have difficulty concentrating. It doesn’t help that our society constantly pressures us to move quickly and be available on our iPhone 24/7. It’s time to tune out. During your lunch break, shut off your phone, step away from your desk, and really focus on what you’re eating. Take smaller bites, and breathe deeply. In the afternoon, if you’re craving sugar, go for a brisk walk instead. Use that time to focus in on your surroundings. When you return to your desk, you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more energized.

2. Don’t do activities that feel like a chore.

We're not suggesting you stop writing papers or going to classes, but stop doing the things you have control over. Is serving on a board feeling more draining than enjoyable? Resign. Do you have a toxic frenemy? Distance yourself from her. If your job is no longer rewarding or enjoyable, update your resume and start looking. When you fix the situations that are troubling you, you'll feel stronger. Reclaim your power.

3. Try something new.

It’s the start of a New Year, and what better time to start a different activity? Whether it’s water aerobics or a Thai cooking class, sign up for something you've never done before. Plus, it’s an excellent way to make new friends and expand your social circle.