Stress can have negative effects on mental and physical health, but there are many ways to reduce it. Here are some tips from various sources:

• Exercise: Physical exercise can be very effective in relieving stress. Even going out to get some fresh air and doing some light physical exercise, like walking to the shops, can help. Regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.

• Eat a healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and low- or no-fat dairy can help reduce stress.

• Avoid unhealthy habits: Limit foods with unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugars. Minimize phone use and screen time. Avoid unhealthy habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

• Meditate: Meditation can help reduce stress by slowing your breathing, reducing your heart rate, and lowering your stress hormones.

• Laugh more: Laughter can increase blood flow and boost immunity, which can help reduce stress.

• Connect with others: Having meaningful relationships can create a sense of belonging and help us become more resilient. Reach out to your community, family members, or friends. Talk with them about your concerns or just spend time together.

• Take time out: Take time to relax. Striking a balance between responsibility to others and responsibility to yourself is important in reducing stress levels.

• Try relaxation exercises: The relaxation response, which involves deep breathing, stretching, or meditating, can help reduce stress.

• Get enough sleep: Getting at least seven hours of sleep per day can help reduce stress.

• Identify the causes: Try to identify the underlying causes of your stress. Group the possible reasons for your stress into those with a practical solution, those that will get better anyway given time, and those you can’t do anything about. Try to let go of those in the second and third groups – there’s no point in worrying about things you can’t change or things that will sort themselves out.

• Do something you enjoy: Engage in activities that you enjoy, such as listening to music, reading a book, or watching a movie.

• Seek professional help: If you are experiencing chronic stress or anxiety, seek professional help. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-based approaches are known to help reduce stress. The first person to...