Wellness and stress-busting pretty much go hand in hand, so it’s fair to say we could all benefit from a bit less stress. Thankfully, there’s more than one way to make that a reality. In fact, we’ve counted 31 ways to reduce stress and placed them gently below for your perusal.
From occasionally putting your phone down to chewing gum, there’s something here for everyone. Try one, or try them all, and look forward to a healthier, happier, less stressful life.
31 DE-STRESSING IDEAS
1. Go outside. Fresh air and nature have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Same goes for exercise. Do more of it to feel better mentally and physically.
3. Take a break from social media. At least for a few days. It can be an unrealistic place.
4. Get a massage.
5. Try some deep-breathing exercises to start your day.
6. Take that well-earned vacation.
7. Download a meditation app like Headspace or Calm.
8. See a comedy show or rent a funny movie. Laughing can reduce stress, relieve tension and improve mood.
9. Get more sleep.
10. Drink green tea. It contains an amino acid that can reduce stress.
11. Stretch to relax your body and mind.
12. Rekindle an old hobby like drawing, knitting or woodworking.
13. Start a gratitude journal to remind yourself of the positives in life.
14. Try progressive muscle relaxation to feel relaxed from head to toe.
15. Listen to music while commuting or working. The right playlist can boost mood and increase energy.
16. Take a walk during your lunch break.
17. Try a diffuser. Aromatherapy can be an effective stress-reliever.
18. Eat some antioxidant-rich dark chocolate to lower stress hormones in your body.
19. Unclutter your desk and your home.
20. Do yoga.
21. Get some sun. Vitamin D is a powerful mood booster.
22. Get more omega-3’s from sources like salmon and avocado. They can reduce stress and anxiety.
23. Spend more time with happy, positive people.
24. Spend less time with the people who bring you down.
25. Start a garden to slow down and connect with nature.
26. Dance to reduce stress and boost serotonin.
27. Talk it out. Sharing your stress with a therapist or loved one can be very therapeutic.
28. Pet or play with an animal.
29. Chew gum. It can reduce stress, fatigue and depression and promote a more positive mood.
30. Stop procrastinating. It’ll just make you more stressed later.
31. Hug someone (even if it has to be virtually). Studies show physical intimacy is a great coping mechanism.
