During these challenging times stress and anxiety can creep up on us. It is more important that ever to keep our mental health in check.

Here are five easy ways to de-stress at home, alone or with the people you live with, at any time of the day.

1. Stay positive. Laughter has been found to lower levels of stress hormones, reduce inflammation in the arteries, and increase ‘good’ HDL cholesterol. Putting on a funny film or TV show, or having a call with a group of friends will be a great mood booster!
2. Meditate. This practice of inward-focused thought and deep breathing has been shown to reduce heart disease risk factors such as high blood pressure. Meditation’s close relatives, yoga and prayer, can also relax the mind and body. There are hundreds on free meditation videos on YouTube to check out.
3. Exercise. Every time you are physically active, whether you take a gentle walk or a run or cycle, your body releases mood-boosting chemicals called endorphins. Exercising not only helps us de-stress, it also helps to protect against heart disease by lowering your blood pressure, strengthening your heart muscle, and helping you maintain a healthy weight. Remember to adhere to Government guidelines on social-distancing to keep yourself and others safe.
4. Unplug. It’s impossible to escape stress when it follows you everywhere. Cut the cord. Avoid emails and TV news. Take time each day — even if it’s for just 10 or 15 minutes — to escape from the world.
5. Discover new ways to destress. Simple things like a warm bath, listening to music, or spending time on a new or favourite hobby can give you a much-needed break from the stress in your life.