Movement to Relieve Stress

Stress can take quite a toll on the body, so it's important to incorporate movement into your daily routine to provide some relief. Dance is proven to be a great way to manage stress and improve your mood. How do you manage stress during your daily routines, though? When you aren't in a dance class, handling your workday in a mindful way can help alleviate some of the pressure. Here are five movement-based tips that can help:

1. chair stretches

Sitting tall, here's a quick routine:

• Lift your arms straight above your head and reach to the sky. Hold 20 seconds.

• Clasp your hands while they're above your head. Lean to one side. Hold 20 seconds and repeat with the other side.

• Lower your arms to grab the lower back of your chair. Stretch your chest forward. Hold 20 seconds.

• Twist at your waist and use the upper back of the chair to hold 20 seconds.

• Facing front, look to one side and lower you chin. Hold 20 seconds and repeat with the other side.

2. Computer breaks

This one's for your eyes (and mind). Although you may be steadfast in cyberspace, bring it back home every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 ft away for 20 seconds. Here's a tip: set your screensaver to come on every 20 minutes as a reminder!

3. Take a walk

If you're working from home, create a walking "commute" for yourself. The time you used to spend in traffic can now be used for your self-care. Throw on your pedometer and get out in the open air. It doesn't have to be a long walk. Even a 5 minute journey between tasks is enough time to refocus, get some air and sunlight, and be refreshed to start again. At the workplace, be sure to take frequent breaks throughout the day for 5-10 minute walks, and bring a co-worker.

4. Dance like no one's watching

If you're working from home, take a quick break and dance freely. Even if someone is indeed watching, they may want to join you. Blast your favorite jams (even slow jams) and dance where you're sitting or standing. Play a couple of songs before getting back to work. If you're in the workplace building, take a quick think-break, instead, and envision yourself dancing while playing your favorite tunes from your earbuds. This can also be a helpful way to memorize choreography.

5. Breathe

That's right. Paying close attention to this activity that your body does on it's own is great for grounding thoughts. The next time you feel yourself tensing, remember to take it back to the basics and breathe. Here's a simple breathing routine you can do:

• Sitting or standing, bring your elbows back slightly

• Take a deep breath. Hold it briefly and count to five.

• Slowly exhale out.

In addition to these activities, take a dance class. It may very well improve your life in ways you hadn't imagined. We offer dance classes that are perfect for rejuvenating your lifestyle. Check out our dance classes on moodmentdance.com.