Stress reduction exercises: Your guide to more inner peace

Stress is a constant companion for many people these days. Between deadline pressure, sensory overload and constant availability, there is hardly any room to breathe. But it is precisely this space that is essential for your health. Because stress isn't just unpleasant - it can make you ill. In this article, we show you 7 effective stress reduction exercises that you can easily integrate into your everyday life. You don't need a lot of time or previous experience. Just the desire to get closer to yourself again.

What happens in the body under stress?

Before we get started, it is important to take a brief look at the physiology. Stress is a physical Reaction: The sympathetic nervous system is activated, cortisol is released, pulse and blood pressure rise. This is helpful in the short term. However, chronic stress throws your nervous system out of balance.

Typical consequences:

  • Concentration problems
  • Sleep disorders
  • Muscle tension
  • Irritability or Fears

That's why it's important to regularly press the "reset button". And this is exactly where targeted stress reduction exercises come into play.

7 stress-relieving exercises for your everyday life

These exercises are scientifically based, can be implemented immediately and help you to calm your nervous system. Try out what works for you.

1. 4-7-8 breathing technique

Breathing is the most direct access to your nervous system. With the 4-7-8 technique, you can reduce your tension in minutes:

This is how it works:

  • Breathe in for 4 seconds
  • Hold your breath for 7 seconds
  • Exhale for 8 seconds

Repeat this 4 to 8 times. Particularly suitable before falling asleep or in stressful situations.

You can also find more breathing exercises in our article Find inner peace.

2. stress reduction exercises: Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR)

This Jacobson method allows you to release tension in a targeted manner:

Instructions:

  • Tense different muscle groups one after the other for approx. 5 seconds
  • Then release for 10 seconds

For example, start with your hands and work your way down to your feet. PMR is also recommended by health insurance companies for stress reduction (Source: DAK).

3. walking meditation

Movement and mindfulness can be perfectly combined. Ideal for anyone who has difficulty sitting.

How it works's:

  • Walk slowly and consciously
  • Feel your feet touch the ground
  • Breathe calmly and evenly

Just 10 minutes is enough to re-center yourself.

a woman lies exhausted on the couch. Exercises to reduce stress

4. tapping technique (EFT)

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) combines acupressure with affirmations. It can release emotional unblock and reduce inner tension.

Example:

  • Gently tap a point with two fingers (e.g. the edge of your hand)
  • Say: "Even when I'm stressed, I'm okay the way I am."

Repeat the sequence several times. Studies show positive effects on stress and anxiety (APA study).

5. 5-4-3-2-1 Mindfulness exercise

This Technology brings brings you back to the here and now within minutes - particularly helpful in cases of overthinking or panic.

Ask yourself one after the other:

  • 5 things you can see
  • 4 things you can hear
  • 3 things you can feel
  • 2 things you can smell
  • 1 thing you can taste

One of the best exercises to stop sensory overload.

6. stress reduction exercises: Journaling for stress management

Writing down thoughts creates distance. Especially helpful:

  • 3 things you can do today grateful are
  • What stressed me out today?
  • What do I want to let go of?

Journaling relieves stress and creates mental clarity.

You can also find more on this topic in the article relieve stress.

7th power pose according to Amy Cuddy

Body language influences your psyche. The "power pose" strengthens Self-confidence and reduces stress hormones.

That's how's:

  • Stand in victory pose for 2 minutes: legs shoulder-width apart, arms in the air
  • Take a deep breath and smile consciously

Works particularly well before challenging conversations.


In the video, Greator Life Coach trainer Christina Hommelsheim gives you 5 tips to combat stress.

YouTube video

Bonus: Test your stress levels

If you have the Feeling that everything is too much for you, then our free burnout test just the thing for you.

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In just a few minutes, you will receive an initial assessment of your mental stress and valuable tips on how to counteract it.

"You don't need an hour - just a conscious moment."

Walter Hommelsheim, Coach & Trainer at Greator life coach

Conclusion: Small exercises - big effect

Reducing stress is not rocket science. A few minutes a day is often enough to calm your nervous system. The important thing is not perfection, but regularity.

Start with an exercise that is easy for you. Perhaps it's a breathing technique, writing or a mindful walk. Your nervous system will thank you.

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