Stress is inevitable. We’re in pain every day and that’s stressful in itself. But stress can have so many negative effects on your body – in turn making you feel worse – and then stressing you even more about how you don’t feel well. Stress can cause headaches, body aches, muscle tension, chest pain/heart rate changes, sleep issues, and even trouble with your stomach and digestion. Over the years I’ve figured out some activities that help me keep that stress level down at least a little bit or calm me when I’m having a particularly overwhelming day.
Take A Bath
One of my favorite things to do when I’m feeling stressed is to take a (probably way too long) bath. I set myself up with some snacks next to the tub, a nice candle lit, dim the lights, and watch YouTube videos or listen to some music. I just add some more hot water when it cools down and I could stay in there for over an hour. I feel like it’s impossible to be tense in the tub.
Work On A Puzzle
This one can go either way for me depending on the puzzle I’m working on -but for the most part jigsaw puzzles have a way of refocusing my attention and calming me down. I have this case for them that’s so easy to store away when you’re not working on it and, unlike the felt rolls I’ve tried, the chunks you’ve already completed don’t fall apart in it. It’s so rewarding when you actually find a bunch of pieces that fit together and can see the picture start to form. Extra relaxation points if it’s a nice beach scene or some cute puppies.
Go For a Walk
Just being outside and taking some deep breaths of fresh air can be so restorative. If you have the energy to take a walk that could release some endorphins and really help with your stress and mood. I live near the beach and just strolling alongside the water is one of the most peaceful activities. Even if you only make it around the block once or twice, I highly suggest trying to take a walk when you’re stressed.
Download Headspace
I signed up for headspace when they were running a free subscription promotion for people who lost their job due to the pandemic. How nice and generous of the company?! It makes me feel good about supporting and recommending them. For a while last year, doing a wind down and listening to their sleepscapes were the only way I could fall asleep. They have a meditation for almost any stressful situation you’re going through. When I’m stressed and panicking I have a hard time cutting off those thoughts on my own, but with Headspace it gave me someone’s voice and words to focus on as they walked me through calming my body down. I definitely find this app to be an effective way to reduce stress.
Snuggle A Pet
Animals truly are therapeutic. I dare you to be in a bad mood with a puppy on your lap. You can’t. If you don’t own a pet but are an animal lover maybe you could visit someone who has one or volunteer at a shelter. I love horses but I don’t own one, so sometimes I’ll head over to a nearby park where the police horses graze and visit them for a while. Fostering is also a great option. You’re helping animals that really need a home which is so gratifying. You also don’t have to worry about the lifetime commitment of owning a pet because you only have them for a short time before they get adopted into their forever home!
Food
I used to run around as a kid yelling “BAM!” thinking I was going to be the next Emeril Lagasse. I love cooking, baking, eating – anything involving food. When I’m feeling stressed I enjoy picking a new recipe to follow or baking my favorite dessert. Or I’ll just pick a food I’m really craving (usually donuts or a McDonald’s shake) and treat myself to it – instant happy dance.
Listen To Some Music
Kind of ironic for a girl with a headache 24/7 lol. But there are some days where a good jam session can really turn your day around! If I’m looking to get pumped up and distract myself I’ll put on some upbeat music, jump around my room and sing my heart out. I also have a playlist of “chill” music if I’m just in the mood to mellow out and calm my body with some slower beats.
Reality TV
Sometimes it’s fun to escape your own drama by watching other people’s drama unfold on television. People call reality shows “mindless” but that’s literally the point! Scripted shows can be super heavy and emotional or make you think and sometimes you just don’t want to think! Pop some popcorn, sit back, and watch some fun reality tv shows! I highly suggest almost anything on bravo – Real Housewives, Below Deck, Summer House – all gold!
What are some of your go-to stress relievers?