For most people, Monday means the start of yet another working week, and very few of us look forward to it. However, there are ways to make life less stressful and more pleasant. Whenever you find youself in a situation where all the jobs, tasks and requirements seem like too much to handle, try one of these tips. They will help you calm down, stay collected, avoid rash decisions, and, most importantly of all, it will make you feel better!

Here is our short version of the list compiled by greatist.com:

• Sip green tea.
• Indulge in a little piece of chocolate, honey, a crunchy snack or a piece of fruit (especially mango!)
• Chew gum.
• Meditate, try progressive relaxation, watch your breathing, or simply close your eyes.
• Give yourself a hand massage, try acupressure, squeeze a stress ball or rub your feet over a golf ball.
• Drip cold water on your wrists.
• Find a way to escape the crowd for even a short while and allow yourself to be alone.
• Look out the window or, if possible, find a sunny spot and soak up the sun for a few minutes.
• Get organized: it is much easier to get stressed when you cannot find something you just had!
• Engage in some brief physical activity: do some yoga, stretch, take a brisk walk up and down the stairs.
• Express your emotions: write down how you feel or talk to a friend.
• Listen to your favourite music and, if nobody is watching, do a little dance.
• Try some distracting mental activity: do a crossword puzzle, count backwards, try and remember all the European capitals.
• Aromatherapy also helps: have your favourite essential oil with you so you can enjoy a favourite aroma whenever you feel like it; or else sniff some citrus fruit or ground coffee.
• Do something else that gives you pleasure: cuddle up with your pet, plan a vacation or a party, daydream… It’s all about allowing yourself to take 5 minutes out of your day to look after something very important that tends to get neglected and forgotten in the midst of all the tasks, jobs, and errands… YOU!

The list of tips to help you relax in 5 minutes or less can be found HERE.

Disclaimer: The Hazelton Clinic is not liable for content or changes in content of any outside sources. The above information is provided for entertainment purposes only, and is meant to encourage healthy lifestyle, emotional and physical well-being and awareness. It does not constitute medical advice.