By: Dr. Michelle Irwin

As we are coming to the end of this year, my wish for everyone in the next is to have less stress. We have been experiencing a lot lately and knowing some simple techniques to reduce that stress will go a long way.

To sum up what we have been talking about his month, here are 4 key takeaways.

1. Make a list and check it twice: Making lists and having a plan to complete tasks will help you feel organized, relaxed, and know that you have accomplished everything so when you are done you aren’t wondering what you have forgotten.
2. Remember to Breath: Sounds simple but conscious breathing will help you feel more relaxed and have more oxygen to focus and think things though.
3. Meditate for the Mind, Body and Soul: Finding time to meditate, even if it is for a few minutes. I like using YouTube myself for guided meditations but there are plenty of applications out there to use. You never know where you might find inspiration for a great meditation.
4. Get Up and Move!: Exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. Whether it is a nice walk or an intensive workout, movement will alleviate stress and increase feel good hormones of serotonin and dopamine, so you are less stressed and happier.

Keeping it simple itself will help to decrease stress. Don’t make it complicated, do something that makes you happy and you will be less stressed.