How to take control of the most stressful times of the day

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If getting through the day seems like a painful routine, you’re not alone. More citizens seem to be working from sunrise to sunset, causing much stress throughout the day, according to the Huffington Post.

Here are the six most stressful times in the day and what you can do to relieve that stress.

Waking up

Nobody enjoys hearing the blaring of an alarm — and neither does your body. Japanese research has found that alarm clocks cause a stress response, spiking blood pressure as much as three points, which could increase the risk for a heart attack in elderly people or those with heart problems. One solution to this problem could be using a gradual-awakening alarm, such as a wakeup light.

The morning rush hour

While this rush hour has nothing to do with sitting behind the wheel, researchers found that the period of time between getting ready and heading out the door can be just as stressful. Relieve stress by making sure you eat breakfast as a preemptive strike.

Commuting

While commuting daily seems like a waste of time, research has shown that it can also be hazardous to your physical, mental and emotional health. Lighten up that time between work and home (or vice versa) by being entertained or social on your journey with a hands-free call to an old friend or listening to an audio book.

4 p.m. hunger pains

A snack a day keeps the stress away. According to a 2015 study, tension-driven hunger tends to peak Mondays through Fridays at 4 p.m. Fend off midday hunger pains by keeping healthy snacks on hand to avoid hitting the vending machines.

Allergies

Sorry, seasonal allergy sufferers — afternoon is when pollen counts tend to be at their highest, bringing the runny noses, coughing and sneezing with it. Avoid the allergy symptoms by using proper medication or treatment, investing in a high-quality air filter and avoiding outdoor exercise.

Arriving home

While walking through the front door might sound relaxing while you’re struggling to complete the tasks at your desk, researchers have found that people had lower levels of stress when they were at work than when they were at home. For women in particular, working can help increase mental and physical health as well as offer an escape from household duties. Women who feel overwhelmed balancing work and home could partner up with other parents to split household chores.