Ways To Relax During Tough Financial Times

by Andrea Norris-McKnight

No one likes being worried or stressed out, but when money problems arise and times get tough, anxiety and stress are inevitable. A lot of us could use some relaxation techniques right now so we went to an expert for tips.

Do you have trouble pushing stress and anxiety aside and just relaxing? Especially when you can’t watch the news without worrying about the future?

We wanted to find ways to relax during these trying times, so we reached out to Jeanie Jones, Licensed Behavioral Practitioner, Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor and a Certified Employee Assistance Professional. Here’s what she had to say about ways to de-stress and relax anytime, anywhere during tough financial times.

Q. Are there quick techniques that you could recommend for relieving tension in stressful situations?

Jeanie: Practice relaxation breathing anytime you feel stressed and upset and before you react. Use it when you cannot fall asleep, whenever you are aware of internal tension.

Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound.

Close your mouth and inhale quietly through your nose to a mental count of four.

Hold your breath for a count of seven.

Exhale completely through your mouth, making a whoosh sound to a count of eight.

This is one breath. Now, inhale again and repeat the cycle three more times for a total of four breaths.

Related: 8 No-Cost Ways To Get To Sleep

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Q. What are some longer-term strategies for dealing with stress?

Jeanie: Keep your life clear. Deal with situations as they come up. Don’t let things “build up.” Talk things over with a trusted friend, clergy, or therapist.

Change your routines so you don’t expose yourself to stressful situations, such as shopping at a time when the stores aren’t as busy, do online banking to avoid long lines, leave for work 15 minutes early to avoid traffic problems, lay out your clothes, prepare lunches the night before, plan meals in advance, budget your money, and live within your means.

Take care of your body and mind. Get regular massages to relieve tension.

Q. How much does stress really affect our health?

Jeanie: We can become distressed when we don’t deal with stress. This can lead to headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain, and trouble sleeping, which can cause memory and concentration problems, and can lead to a lowered immune system and can cause or exacerbate other diseases and illnesses.

Q. Should stress management be an important part of a daily routine?

Jeanie: Absolutely! Deep breathing, journaling, practicing mindfulness, meditation, and prayer are all ongoing ways to manage stress that can be done in 10 to 60 minutes.

Q. What are some things that people forget to do if they are trying to deal with a stressful situation?

BREATHE! Sometimes, we actually “hold our breath” when under stress or threat. By practicing deep breathing during these moments of stress, we can think more clearly, slow down our thoughts, and respond more appropriately. When we do this, we have more opportunity to resolve the situation, thus not letting stress build-up.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend or a professional, if it is a chronic situation or one we cannot manage on our own.

Say “NO” when you are out of time or resources, especially if you are a “caretaker” by profession or personality. You can’t take care of anyone else if you haven’t taken care of yourself.

No one likes being worried or stressed out. If you’ve ever needed some relaxation ideas for a stressful situation, hopefully, these tips can provide some guidance.

Reviewed November 2023

About the Author

Jeanie Jones provides individual counseling, business training and other counseling services. She is a Licensed Behavioral Practitioner, (LBP), Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LADC) and a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP).