How to Reduce Stress When You Are Over 50

Anxiety is a common complaint for those of us who are older. It’s easy to freak out when friends or family are dying or we are in a financial bind. Still, we don’t want our blood pressure to go up to unsafe levels. Here are some suggestions on ways to reduce stress so you don’t end up having a heart attack.

Take a walk

Walking is my saving grace. I do it religiously every morning and I don’t consider myself to be that religious. It’s my time to relax, be in touch with nature (even in the big city), and gather my thoughts.

Use lavender frequently

Lavender oil or spray is relaxation in a bottle. Put a dab of pure lavender essential oil on your neck, around your ears, or anywhere else you can whiff it. You can also sit down in a chair and wrap a lavender neck pillow around your shoulders. Sit for about 10 minutes and close your eyes.

Drink Hibiscus tea

If you sip a cup of Hibiscus tea three times a day, it will lower your blood pressure. It’s delicious with a teaspoon of honey.

Buy a foot massager

The nerves in your feet connect to every part of your body. If you stick a foot massager under your desk it will not only ease your aching feet but will help you relax. A cheaper fix is to use a dryer ball and roll it under your toes whenever you get a chance. If you can, book yourself a spa appointment. Let someone else help you reduce stress.

Limit your consumption of the news

Set parameters on how long you’ll watch or listen to the news each day and switch to lighter fare later on. Something comedic always helps reduce stress. Never watch the news right before going to bed or you’ll be up all night freaking out.

Try a natural sleep aid

Avoid drugs like Ambien if you can. Instead, enjoy a soothing cup of Chamomile Tea or warm milk. Rescue Remedy or a couple of tablets of Hyland Calms (both homeopathic) are also effective.

Meditate

Don’t worry about becoming a meditation master. Just sit in a chair, close your eyes, and give yourself 10 minutes to breathe deeply and relax to reduce stress.

Reduce stress by taking action to change the world for the better

This may sound like something that will create more stress, but aiding in finding a solution by calling your Congress members, going out to protest, comforting a victim, or making a donation will ease your tensions a bit because you know you’ve contributed.

Don’t let stress reduce your lifespan when you are over 50. If you feel anxious, stop, take a break, and think about what you are grateful for.

What are your best tips to reduce stress when life is crazy? Please leave a comment below.