Photo by Jen P. on Unsplash

Is stress killing your marriage? According to an article on psychology.com, “When people are stressed, they become more withdrawn and distracted, and less affectionate. They also have less time for leisure activities, which leads to alienation between partners. Stress also brings out people’s worst traits, which may lead their partners to withdraw as well, because who wants to be around someone when they are acting their worst?”

But wait, there’s more! According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, “Despite marriage’s health benefits, all couples experience stress that can increase morbidity and mortality risks. Marital stress can alter endocrine, cardiovascular, and immune function—key pathways from troubled relationships to poor health.”

It’s probably safe to say that a stressful spouse is an unhappy spouse, which means the marriage leaves a lot to be desired in the area of happiness and satisfaction. 

In 2018, one study found that 74% of people felt so stressed they felt overwhelmed or unable to cope.

Stress harms your mental and physical health, leaving you feeling drained, anxious, and/or depressed. But there are simple things you can do to manage this stress and unlock the happy hormones that make life happier and more enjoyable. 

Here are seven easy ways to reduce stress and be happier:

Take A Walk

Exercise is the easiest and perhaps fastest way to reduce stress levels. 

Research shows that walking has numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety while promoting happy hormones. A stroll after dinner is just what the (mental health) doctor ordered.

Meditation and Prayer

Meditation and prayer have been shown to manage and reduce stress exceptionally well.

Research reveals that regular meditation lowers cortisol levels, which are associated with feelings of stress and anxiety.

Listen to Uplifting Music

Listening to music can relieve stress, especially when the music is calming or soothing. 

Playing an instrument relaxes some people, taking their minds off their problems.

Take Breaks During Work

Working nonstop without taking mental breaks throughout the day causes burnout and stress. 

Regular breaks throughout the day work wonders for your mental and emotional health, reduce the monotony of work, and provide time to relax and recharge. 

Eat Stress-Relieving Foods 

Believe it or not, certain foods reduce stress. Healthy foods rich in antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients reduce cortisol levels and improve overall mood. Eating dark chocolate, nuts, blueberries, salmon, avocados, and other healthy foods helps you manage stress.

Sleep More 

Sleep is one of the best ways to manage stress levels. Research shows that sleeping 7-9 hours regulates hormones and improves overall health. Prepare for sleep by turning off digital devices and keeping the bedroom cool.

Do What You Love Without Feeling Guilty

Live your life! Doing what you love reduces stress. If you’re doing things you like, you can’t help but feel great. 

Try to do something every day that you enjoy and makes you happy, whether reading a book or taking a stroll in nature, because it releases feel-good hormones. 

And remember this: Do not feel guilty about taking time to do something you love and enjoy. This is what you’re on this planet for — living, loving, and making a difference. 

Stress doesn’t have to rule your life and harm your marriage. By following these tips, you can manage stress and unlock your happy hormones to enjoy life more fully!

Your happiness and satisfaction are the key ingredients for becoming the best version of yourself and unlocking your best marriage. Although stress is unavoidable, with these strategies, it doesn’t have to take over your life or ruin your marriage.