Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel overburdened or perhaps irritable? Well, if you are feeling any of these emotions, chances are that you may be experiencing stress.

Last week, we established that stress is a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation, according to the World Health Organization.

While everyone experiences stress from time to time, experiencing stress over a prolonged period can affect our health.

As we observe Stress Awareness Month, Our Today has put together a few simple tips you can take to relieve stress.

Physical activity

Being physically active is a great way to relieve stress because it boosts feel-good endorphins, neurotransmitters released by the brain, that make you feel happy.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a U.S.-based medical practice and research group, regular exercise can increase self-confidence, improve your mood, help you relax, and lower symptoms of mild depression and anxiety.

Exercise also serves as a distraction from the things that cause you to be stressed in the first place.

Going to the beach

The beach has been associated by many people with relaxation and happiness. Going to the beach is a great way to relax and unwind after a stressful week.

Taking breaks

Taking breaks from your busy schedule to participate in activities that you enjoy is a great way to maintain your mental health and well-being. By taking a break, you are helping the body to better manage stress while reducing the likelihood of burnout.

Whether it is taking a short break during the day or going on a vacation, this allows the body to feel refreshed.

Not taking things personally

Stress is oftentimes caused by external factors, such as how we perceive things, or how we think others perceive us.

Whether it is criticism from a work colleague, family member or significant other, we are all guilty at some point of taking things personally, which sometimes leads to stress or anxiety. However, we must develop the habit of not taking things personally.

There is good criticism and there is also bad criticism, the ultimate choice is yours whether or not you want to accept that criticism. Your response will ultimately determine the outcome.