Being stressed makes everyone around you stressed. When this happens, the person harmed the most is almost always your partner or spouse. If one of you is stressed, it can spread like a sickness, infecting both of you until it becomes the norm for your relationship.
That’s why stress relief tactics are so important – to keep your relationships safe from the stress scourge. Try the following strategies, which you can do together as a couple:
Deep breathe
Deep breathing exercises are one of the best ways to lower your stress levels, and performing these with your partner can be a very relaxing and intimate experience.
To practice this together, sit back-to-back or lie down on your bed holding hands. Try to synchronize your breaths so you are both inhaling to a count of 7 and exhaling to a count of 11.
Laugh
Laughter is one of the best ways to de-stress with your sweetie. Laughter actually increases endorphins, a kind of ‘feel good hormone,’ and decreases stress hormones like cortisol. So, go see a funny movie, tune in to some late night comedy, or look for stand-up shows in your area.
Be sure to keep some of your favorite comedy DVDs and TV shows on hand so you can laugh together when stress strikes.
Exercise together
Go for a jog or walk, or do some yoga together. These activities reduce stress by pumping up your endorphins and improving your mood. Exercising together also has the added benefit of making you feel like you’re doing something healthy for yourself—and each other.
Talk
Discussing your feelings with your partner is a great way to relieve stress. You don’t want to vent or blame your partner, but rather let them know in a calm and matter of fact way that you are stressed out and why. Either you can problem solve together, or it’s possible that the simple act of sharing and being honest will allow some of the stress to dissipate.
Give each other massages
Muscle tension and mental tension tend to inform each other. A stressed mind can result in a tense body, and vice versa. So, a relaxing, gentle massage from your partner can be the perfect solution to end this cycle! Areas to focus on include the head, hands, feet, neck, and shoulders. Using calming essential oils like lavender, rosemary, or sandalwood can also help.
There will always be stressful situations we need to confront throughout our lives, but there’s no reason to let them negatively affect your relationships. When you feel tension start to seep into your happy life, try one of these techniques to relax and diffuse it before it becomes a problem.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-management-breathing-exercises-for-relaxation
http://www.psychicsuniverse.com/articles/love-relationships/relationships/basics/improve-your-relationship-10-stress-relief-tips
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469
