Getting rid of your stress can be a big challenge, and in some cases, it may be impossible. But finding some stress relief can certainly be achieved through a variety of ways, including many of the popular stress-busting activities which we’ll look at in more detail below. Whether you’re stressed after a long day at work or you’re going through a difficult period of your life at the moment, there are many things you can try that might help to relieve some of your stress. Here are some great activities to try.
1. Meditation
Meditation can help to relieve stress by encouraging your mind and body to take a moment to relax and step back. It can be difficult at first to learn how to meditate and completely switch off from the business of the day. However, getting into the habit of practicing meditation can help you to find a way to momentarily get away from your daily stress. If you struggle to forget about all the things you need to do, write them down before you begin meditating so that you no longer need to worry about whether you will remember. Focus on your breathing and proactively tune in to the present moment to get the most out of your meditation sessions.
2. Sports
Playing sports can be a great way of relieving some stress and finding some time for yourself amid a stressful or hectic schedule. Many people enjoy getting involved with team sports such as soccer or baseball, which enables them to connect with other people too – multiplying the stress-relieving effects of physical activity. You can invest in many types of sports equipment if this is something that helps you. From gym equipment to baseball pitching machines known for their quality and ability to help relieve stress, there is something available for everyone.
3. Massage
Massage is also known for its ability to help relieve stress while also improving your overall health. By helping your overall health, including improved circulation, lymphatic drainage, and inflammation, massage can help you feel better in many different ways. During a massage, your body may release increased endorphins and serotonin, which both increase feelings of happiness and relaxation. If you feel that you don’t have time or can’t afford to go for a professional massage, you can explore self-massage using gentle body oils and creams at home.
4. Take a Hot Bath
Relaxing in a bathtub full of hot water can help your body and mind to relax and relieve stress after a long day. This is a great activity to build into your routine at least once a week for your overall health. You can use a few drops of relaxing essential oils such as bergamot or lavender or mix some magnesium salts or other bath salts into the water. Rather than watching a movie or spending time on your phone, put any devices away and switch on some calming music or simply relax in a quiet environment. Remove distractions and take this time for yourself to relax and escape from the stressors of the day.
5. Puzzles and Games
Puzzles and games can be very effective at helping to combat stress. This is partly because they help to focus your mind on something completely different, which limits your ability to think about other things, such as the factors that are making you feel stressed. If you enjoy crosswords, Sudoku, and other puzzles, spend some time playing these to help take your mind away from the stress. You might also enjoy playing other games such as online games or multiplayer games with friends. Whatever type of gaming activities you enjoy, finding something that relieves some stress can be very beneficial.
6. Talk to Friends
It is well known that speaking to friends and other people who are close to you can help to relieve stress. Offloading some of your worries can help you to feel like you’re able to tackle more of your stress going forward. Making time to speak to friends, whether it’s on the phone, by text, or in person, can be a great way to get rid of stress and stay connected with those you love. You can combine meeting friends with other activities, such as going to the gym or taking a walk in a local park, to get the additional benefits of these other stress-combatting activities.
7. Reading
Reading is another activity that contributes to your mental well-being. It has been proven that reading reduces stress and increases relaxation. Reading something you enjoy after a long, stressful day is a great way to unwind. If you’re a fan of short stories, you can explore narratives from The Doe, where you can find many anonymous and inspirational stories from people around the globe.
There are a variety of activities that can help you to combat stress and find relief from the worries and anxieties of life. Whether you love playing sports or just want to relax and offload your concerns to some friends, making time to look after yourself and ensure you’re getting rid of stress can be incredibly beneficial for you in the short and long term.
