We live in a time of deadlines and stress. Work, family life, piling up bills. All of these lead to stress resulting in anxiety and depression. Here are ten simple ways for you to help decompress during to day to reduce stress and anxiety.

1. Drink Green Tea

L-theanine, an amino acid found in tea plants, promotes relaxation and offsets the “hyper” effect of caffeine. This is why, although tea contains caffeine, it is still very soothing. Strive for 1-3 cups a day for maximum benefits.

2. Eat Chocolate

Chocolate releases phenylethylamine in the brain. This causes changes in blood pressure and blood sugar levels, leading to feelings of alertness and excitement. Experts believe that chocolate creates a feeling of being in love when you eat it, which is why you feel so happy!

3. Take A Day Off

Take a personal day, even if it’s just a half day, to let yourself recuperate after a tough week. Your boss may not approve, but it will do wonders for your mind. It may also be beneficial to try Claire Winchester Hypnotherapy.

4. Avoid Coffee

Coffee can contribute to nervousness and mood swings, so limit your intake if you want to de-stress. To avoid afternoon jitters and sleepless nights, avoid drinking coffee after 11 a.m.

5. Avoid Processed Foods

Processed foods, including artificial sweeteners, fast food, white flour products and soft drinks, can put stress on the digestive system. It’s best to avoid these foods if you want a calm stomach and a calm mind.

6. Take Flaxseed Oil

Flaxseed oil improves mood and boosts brain function. Take one tablespoon in the morning with water, or add it to a homemade fruit smoothie.

7. Exercise Regularly

Cardio and weight lifting are equally effective stress relievers. Try to get to the gym at least 3-5 times a week, as exercise provides a physical and mental release, allowing you to stomp out those negative feelings.

8. Unplug

Take a break from your phone, TV, computer, Kindle, and anything else that can be a source of distraction. Unplug for just 30 minutes a day to help yourself relax. Try this tip and see how quickly your stress levels will drop.

9. Declutter Your Home

Clutter creates a sense of confusion and chaos. By removing the unnecessary things from your home, you are also removing the clutter from your mind. Get rid of clothes that you never wear and things that you never use, and you’ll feel better in no time. By doing that you could create additional space for indoor plants that help with stress and anxiety.

10. Just Breathe

You don’t have to practice yoga or meditation in order to calm yourself down. Deep breathing in the middle of a traffic jam, in the afternoon at work, or while standing in line at the grocery store, can be just as effective. As you breathe, imagine that you’re blowing out negative feelings, as this is often even more helpful.

For more suggestions on ways to help prevent or reduce anxiety, Lottoland lists ways to reduce stress on their website. Visit it today for more helpful tips.