Life is full of uncertainties, and it is natural to feel stressed from time to time. Stress is unavoidable. However, the way we deal with it can make a whole lot of difference. Chronic stress can have a negative impact on your physical and mental health.

Fortunately, many effective stress management techniques can be practiced instantly. Here are 10 tips to reduce stress in seconds:.

1. Breathing Exercises

One of the most effective ways to release stress instantly is through breathing exercises. Take a quick break from your daily routine and focus on your breath. Slowly inhale through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, and then exhale through your mouth.

Repeat the process for a few minutes to experience relaxation.

2. Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and then releasing muscles to achieve immediate relaxation. Start with your feet and work your way up to your head. Contract your muscles, hold for a few seconds, and then release.

Focus on the sensation of relaxation you feel afterwards.

3. Progressive counting

This technique involves slowly counting from one to ten while focusing on your breath and the sensation of relaxation. With each count, imagine one of your worries fading away until you reach ten.

4. Humming

Humming is an ancient stress relief technique that has been shown to improve mental alertness, decrease stress, and decrease fatigue. Humming also opens the sinuses and clears the mind. Try humming for a few minutes when you’re feeling stressed.

5. Visualization

Visualization is a technique in which you imagine yourself in a peaceful environment. It could be a beach, a mountain, or a quiet room. Visualize the environment, and immerse yourself in it, focusing entirely on the sensation of being in that place.

Create your own visualization or use a guided imagery recording.

6. Focus on Present Moment

Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment. Pay attention to your surroundings and try not to worry about the future or the past. Be present in the present moment and focus on your emotions and sensations without judgment.

7. Laughter

Laughter is a powerful stress reliever. It relaxes the body, reduces stress hormones, and releases endorphins. Watch a funny video or a comedy, or simply laugh with a friend to reduce stress in seconds.

8. Aromatherapy

Scents like lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus have been shown to have a calming effect on the brain. Use aromatherapy oils in a diffuser or apply a few drops to your wrist to breathe in the calming scent.

9. Listening to Music

Listening to calming music has been shown to reduce stress and improve relaxation. Research suggests that slow, classical, or melodious music can help reduce cortisol levels, which is the hormone associated with stress.

10. Physical Activity

Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, and reduces stress hormones. Take a brisk walk or do a few yoga stretches to release your stress.

Reducing stress in seconds is not impossible. Try these 10 tips and see what works best for you.