Simple, daily habits to keep your stress levels in check

From humming to imagining yourself in the future, wellbeing experts share their favourite ways to keep calm when the world feels crazy

- ELLA WALKER

Everybody feels stressed sometimes, it's a completely normal - some would even say vital part of being human. The adrenaline that comes with it is what helps power you through a job interview; sharpens your focus when you're dealing with a tricky task; and helps you spot and navigate potentially dangerous situations quickly. Take away 'flight or fight or freeze' mode - your body's natural response to stressful events - and things can unravel when you least need them to.

That said, too much stress can be a danger in itself. If you don't know how to manage it, you can end up feeling anxious and upset, sick and dizzy, and lacking in confidence. Long-term unchecked stress can leave you burnt out, overwhelmed and physically and mentally exhausted.

As with so many things, balance is key. And the good news is there's a lot we can all do to keep an eye on our stress levels, and steps we can take to make sure they don't get out of control. Not sure where to start? We asked a gaggle of experts for their ultimate stress-busting tactics that you can implement today....

STAY HYDRATED

Feeling physically healthy is a good way to feel mentally healthy. 'If it's not easy for me, I'm not going to do it - it needs to be obvious and unavoidable,' says Dr Alexandria Phillips, clinical psychologist at Soke Wimbledon. 'Drinking lots of water helps me ward off stress headaches. I put my glass on top of my phone on my bed stand, so that when I wake up in the morning, I have to pick up the glass of water to be able to pick up my phone. First glass of water achieved before I'm even out of bed!'

BREATHE IN