Everyday Stress Relief: Simple Lifestyle & Nutrition Habits for a Calmer You

By Terry Mecklin, Board-Certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Certified Hormone and Infertility Coach, and Functional Nutritionist

Simple, Powerful Ways to Ease Stress Naturally

Stress is a part of life, but how we manage it makes all the difference in our overall well-being. The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine to find relief. Small, intentional changes in daily habits and nutrition can have a profound impact on calming your nervous system and restoring balance.

Here are some simple, yet powerful, techniques you can start using today. Breathe Your Way to Calm

One of the quickest ways to shift from stress mode to relaxation is through breathwork. When we’re stressed, our breath becomes shallow, sending signals to the body that it’s in danger. By consciously slowing our breath, we activate the parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s “rest and digest” state.

Try this: Box Breathing

Inhale deeply through your nose for four counts.
Hold for four counts.
Exhale slowly through your mouth for four counts.
Hold for four counts.
Repeat for one to two minutes.

This technique is like a mini-reset for your nervous system, helping you feel grounded and in control.

Acupressure for Instant Stress Relief

Acupressure is an ancient healing practice that involves applying gentle pressure to specific points on the body to release tension and promote relaxation. It’s like acupuncture but without the needles!

Try this: Calming the mind

Find the spot between your eyebrows, slightly above the bridge of your nose. Gently press or massage in a circular motion for 30–60 seconds while taking slow, deep breaths. This simple technique can ease headaches, reduce anxiety, and help you feel more centered in moments of overwhelm.

Nourish Your Body, Soothe Your Mind

What you eat plays a significant role in how your body responds to stress. Certain foods and herbs naturally support the nervous system, helping you feel more resilient and calm.

Stress-reducing nutrients include:

Magnesium (found in leafy greens, almonds, pumpkin seeds) – Helps relax muscles and supports a balanced mood.
B Vitamins (found in eggs, avocado, whole grains) – Essential for energy production and nervous system health.
Omega-3s (found in salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds) – Help reduce inflammation and support brain function.

Calming herbal remedies include:

Chamomile tea is known for its soothing effects on the nervous system.
Ashwagandha – An adaptogenic herb that helps the body adapt to stress.
Lemon balm – Supports relaxation and promotes restful sleep.

Adding these to your daily routine is an easy, natural way to build resilience against stress.

The Power of Gratitude: Shift Your Perspective

When we’re stressed, it’s easy to focus on what’s going wrong. Gratitude shifts our mindset, helping us find moments of peace even in a challenging time

Try this: Start a gratitude journal

Each morning or night, write down three things you’re grateful for. They can be as simple as a warm cup of tea, a kind conversation, or a moment of stillness. This small practice trains your brain to focus on the positive, reducing stress over time.

Bringing It All Together

Managing stress doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating mindful breathwork, simple acupressure techniques, nourishing foods, and a daily gratitude practice, you’ll create a foundation of calm and resilience in your everyday life.

Want more tools to support your well-being? Download my free stress-relief guide for additional techniques and recipes to help you feel balanced and at ease and follow me on LinkedIn or on Instagram @Terry.Mecklin.