A Simple Daily Ritual Can Help Relieve Stress

Aside from the obvious stressors that come with work, family and finances, the modern world itself can simply be overwhelming. A continuous barrage of cell phones, televisions, social media and a stream of people demanding immediate decisions.

Not only can chronic stress compromise emotional health, it can actually increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

There is a simple, affordable, practical daily ritual that can immediately help to relieve stress: journaling.

Write Daily for 5 to 15 Minutes

Journal daily for it to work. It takes frequent writing to gain the insights needed to figure out exactly what is creating stress and to explore solutions. The logistics don't really matter: morning or bedtime, laptop or pretty notebook, paragraphs or pages, 5 or 15 minutes. It's the consistency that can bring about stress-relieving results.

Write About 'What Worries'

Go straight to the problem and write about 'what worries.' Describe them from every single possible angle. The more descriptive, the better. Go back to the very first time this problem caused stress in order to get to the root of the worry.

Describe What Is Happening Now

For the moment, forget about what was done, what someone else did, or what can be done. Instead, document precisely what is happening right now. Just the facts, without added drama. Be very realistic and honest above all else. Be sure to document the reality of the specific worry.  If it is a more generalized stress, make a list of the things that might be contributing to it and describe each of those.

Document the Worst That Can Happen

One thing that often causes stress is the unknown or the 'worst thing' that could happen. Describe this worst thing, but make it realistic. For example, don't make up something like an airplane falling on the holiday party. However, bad weather, rude guests and other issues might be. Include potential steps and tactics that would avoid this worst-case outcome.

Document the Best That Can Happen

Let's get serious by thinking about and writing about the very best  possible outcome of the situation. Include potential steps and tactics to achieve this best-case outcome.

Write a Counter-Argument 

A really good way to overcome stress about a situation is to write a counter-argument. First, tell the story in a letter about what is happening. Then write a response letter, arguing all the negativity and turning it into positivity. Pretend to be answering a best friend with reasonable, balanced advice.

So Simple, Yet So Effective

It may be surprising that the simple act of writing can accomplish so much. Start with the right attitude and a few minutes a day of introspection to melt the stress away. It's a quick way to gain a sense of calm and control over the situation. Not only can it improve emotional health, it'll reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease as added bonus.

DISCLAIMER: This information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgement. See complete disclaimer.