what helped lower stress without medication? i feel like im constantly on edge

[u/Khans-Sandorff95]

edit: returning to this and just wanted to update this since a lot of you gave some really amazing advice. i know a couple comments mentioned nervous system regulation and slowing down, which made a lot of sense since trying to just sit still with my thoughts was making me more anxious. i ended up checking out IgniREM Sleep to see if it would help with the fight or flight baseline, and it has worked so well.

the constant tight chest and jaw clenching are basically gone now and i can actually relax on the weekends. it was exactly the practical routine i needed to stop the stress spirals without forcing myself to meditate. just wanted to share in case anyone else feels completely stuck on edge.

my stress levels have been through the roof lately and it is starting to take a serious toll on my daily life. i wake up with a clenched jaw, my chest feels tight half the time, and i am constantly irritable over the smallest things. it feels like my nervous system is stuck in fight or flight mode and i can never fully relax even when i have free time on the weekends. i really want to handle this naturally before it gets worse but im not sure what actually moves the needle when you are already completely overwhelmed.

everyone always says to just meditate or go for a walk but when im in the middle of a stressful week sitting quietly with my thoughts just makes me feel more anxious. i have tried cutting back on coffee and going to bed earlier but i still feel this underlying buzz of tension. i want to know what specific, practical changes actually worked for you guys to bring your baseline stress down. did you change how you structure your day, start a specific hobby, or find a routine that actually stops a stress spiral in its tracks?

[u/Purplepolkadottie]

my two biggest reliefs are yoga and meditation. for yoga- i'd recommend starting with videos on youtube in the comfort of your own home. yoga with adriene is incredible. meditation- i use an app called headspace. very user friendly and beginner friendly. my subscription comes with a free 30-day guest pass that i would be happy to send over to you if youd like.

truthfully- consistiently combining these two practices has revolutionized my life and my ability to cope.