7 simple stress busters that can help you release tension

Most of us suffer with stress at some point, whether it’s due to overwork, issues with family or relationships, or feeling overwhelmed by all areas of our lives.

In small doses, stress is unlikely to do any harm. In fact, it can even help to improve your motivation and focus at times.

But when stress becomes persistent and long term, it can start to have negative impacts.

Finding ways to deal with your stress levels can help you to bring them under control. Read on to find out seven smart ways to manage stress.

Stress is incredibly common, but help is available, and self-help techniques can also really work

If you’re feeling stressed, you’re not alone. In fact, stress is so prevalent that, according to Priory Group, in 2025, 74% of adults felt so stressed they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.

It can manifest differently in individuals, but the physical and mental symptoms of stress can include:

• • Anxiety
  • Racing thoughts
  • Loss of enjoyment or interest in life
  • A sense of dread
  • Feeling worried or tense
  • Fatigue
  • Indigestion
  • Weight gain or loss

You might also find yourself becoming increasingly irritable, tearful, and feeling that you want to withdraw from people around you.

If you think your stress levels are seriously impacting your life, please speak to your GP in the first instance or visit the site.

There are some things you can do for yourself, too, to help manage your stress on an everyday basis.

1. Use cold water or ice

If stress is starting to make you feel panicky, cold water can help you to shift into a calmer state by shocking your system. Try splashing your face with cold water, taking a cold shower, or holding an ice cube. The cold will send a signal to your brain that actually interrupts your thoughts, helping to break the cycle of stress.

2. Listen to music

This can be a gentle way to soothe your system, especially if you choose music which evokes happy memories. You could also try using meditation music, which can quickly help you relax into a state of calm.

3. Shake your body

This might sound unusual, but it really can work! Movement and shaking can help relieve stress, releasing feel-good endorphins and helping you to get rid of pent-up tension.

4. Have a laugh

Uncontrollable belly laughter can be a great stress buster. It’s not one you can manufacture, but you can choose to spend time with people you know will make you laugh, watch a comedian you find funny, or put on a comedy programme. It’s a real stress release, leaving you feeling much more grounded and happier.

5. Look after your gut

Serotonin is a transmitter and hormone that helps to regulate your mood. While it’s often associated with our brains, according to the National Institutes of Health, 95% of our serotonin is produced in the intestine.

Taking care of your gut can support your serotonin production, so try to eat balanced meals that stabilise your blood sugar. This means cutting down on processed foods, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and increasing your protein intake.

6. Prioritise your sleep

Good-quality sleep can make all the difference if you’re stressed, so try to make this a priority. Give yourself consistency with a proper sleep routine, and focus on sleep hygiene.

This means avoiding screens before bed, limiting your caffeine and alcohol intake, and making sure your room is a comfortable temperature.

7. Practise breathwork

When you’re very stressed, you might notice your breathing becomes short and ragged. Practising your breathwork at times you’re not feeling stressed can help you implement it when you do need it.

You could try the 4/7/8 technique:

• • Take a deep breath for a count of 4
  • Hold your breath for a count of 7
  • Breathe out through your mouth for a count of 8.

This can help you soothe your system, grounding you and bringing your mind back to the present.

Get in touch

Finances shouldn’t be causing you stress. If there’s anything you’d like to discuss, please email us at info@harperlees.co.uk or call 01277 350560 to find out more, and we’ll be very happy to help.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at individuals only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.