Life can feel overwhelming at times, but stress doesn’t have to take over. Small, simple changes can help you feel more relaxed and in control. Here are three easy ways to reduce stress and bring more balance into your day

1. Take a Deep Breath When stress sneaks up on you, your breathing tends to get quick and shallow. Taking a moment to breathe deeply can help calm your body and mind. Try this simple technique called box breathing:

• Breathe in slowly through your nose for four seconds.
• Hold your breath for four seconds.
• Exhale gently through your mouth for four seconds.
• Pause for four seconds, then repeat. This easy practice can help you feel more centered and at ease in just a few moments.
• I find it helpful to actually visualize a box in my mind and trace it’s edges to connect my imagination and further clear my mind.

2. Move in a Way That Feels Good Exercise doesn’t have to mean a grueling workout at the gym. Moving your body in a way that feels good can work wonders for stress relief. A few simple ways to get moving include:

• Taking a short walk outside to clear your mind.
• Stretching or doing some gentle yoga.
• Dancing to your favorite song just for fun. The key is to find something you enjoy and make it a part of your routine. Even a few minutes of movement each day can make a big difference.

3. Set Boundaries and Unplug With endless notifications and to-do lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Setting boundaries around work, social media, and personal time can help you recharge. Here are some ways to create more space for yourself:

• Have a tech-free zone in your home for quiet time.
• Set specific hours to check emails and messages—then stick to them.
• Give yourself permission to say no to things that drain your energy. By creating healthy boundaries, you’ll have more time and energy for the things that truly matter to you.

You don’t need to make drastic changes to feel less stressed. Small, simple shifts—like taking a deep breath, moving in a way that feels good, and setting boundaries—can help you find more calm and balance in your life. Try one of these today and see how it feels!