"Science-backed Strategies for Stress Relief: 5 Ways to Relax"

Stress can take a toll on our mental and physical health, but there are science-backed strategies to help us relax. Breathing exercises, such as cyclic sighing, can interrupt the snowball effect of stress by triggering the self-soothing component of the autonomic nervous system. Listening to music releases dopamine in the body, reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation. Interacting with dogs can decrease cortisol levels and increase executive function, benefiting academic success. Coloring can relax the mind and body, ease depression and anxiety, and improve focus and motor skills. Peeling an orange or using sweet orange essential oils can reduce stress and promote relaxation through the uplifting and stimulating effects of limonene.