Summer is a great time to begin daily actions that help you handle stress! Try these tips in the Summer to build great habits that you can continue into the Fall.

1. Exercise Regularly

Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. Exercise increases the production of endorphins, the body's natural mood lifters. Whether it's a brisk walk, mowing the lawn, or taking a swim, get your body moving in the summer to reduce stress levels.

2. Breathe with Purpose

Breathing is an automatic process, but when done with purpose, it becomes a powerful tool for stress relief and mental clarity. Intentional breathing involves taking slow, deep breaths with your belly out, focusing on the breath itself, and creating a sense of calm and relaxation. Exhaling longer than you inhale is also known to reduce stress. Head outside in the morning or early evening every day to take a few purposeful breaths and build this great habit.

3. Eat Well

Try eating cherries, bananas, and almonds to improve your sleep and promote relaxation. Cherries contain melatonin, a natural sleep promoter, and bananas and almonds have magnesium which helps muscles to relax. Cherries are abundant in the summer, so try some today!

4. Stay Connected

Socializing can be helpful for managing stress. Sharing your thoughts and feelings with others can lighten your emotional load and help you gain new perspectives. Summer is a great time to widen your social circle because people are outside more. Try taking a walk in your neighborhood and saying hello to friendly people you pass. Walking at the same time each day increases the chances you’ll run into the same people repeatedly. Soon, “hello” becomes “how are you” and “how are you” becomes “let’s walk together.” This can be a great way to connect with people right where you live.

5. Use Stress Management Tools

Incorporating stress management tools like Calmpak can be incredibly beneficial. Calmpak is a comprehensive stress management system that offers a variety of effective experiences, such as guided meditations, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. It's designed to help you de-stress and maintain your well-being throughout your day. With easy-to-use features, Calmpak can be a great addition to your stress management routine.

By integrating these strategies into your daily life during the summer, you can effectively manage stress and improve your overall well-being. Remember, finding the right balance and tools that work for you is key to maintaining a healthy and stress-free life.

Calmpak is available at www.calmpak.org.