Jan 02, 2017 10:34 AM EST By Audri Taylors, UniversityHerald Reporter

Now that the holidays are over, it's time to get up and get back to reality. However, with the amount of stress that has piled on after a number of parties and gatherings than you can remember, it can be a bit of a challenge to survive the holiday "hangover".

While we don't really have a choice when it comes to getting stressed, there are some scientific ways to reduce its effects. Here are some of those tricks.

Treat yourself for a massage

In one Japanese study cited by Business Insider, getting back massages can help you get relief from stress and can help you relax. This is because back massage can reduce muscle stiffness and lowers down levels of cortisol, the hormone that is associated with stress.

Meditate

Meditate is a popular way to relax and it is also supported by scientific claims. According to studies, meditation works wonders especially for those who are suffering from anxiety.

Exercise regularly

According to Harvard Medical School, the key to a relaxed mind is a relaxed body, and one of the most effective ways to relax is by exercising because it releases the hormones that boost your mood like endorphins. Exercise also work by reducing stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

Breathe deeply

Huffington Post cited that taking a deep breathe can be effective when it comes to reducing tension and relieving stress. It can also aid in lowering down of blood pressure.

Buy a plant

Researchers said that plants can help you calm down and that being surrounded by plants can induce your relaxation response. In a Washington State University study, it was discovered that a group of stressed out people who were asked to enter a room full of plants were observed to have a drop in their blood pressure. So that means your houseplants do not only come in handy as air purifiers and home décor, they can also help you de-stress and relax.

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