Life is full of stressful situations, whether it be school, work, relationships, family, health, etc. The list of possible stressors is endless, therefore effective ways to de-stress needs to be a part of everyday life. Many claim they don't have time, but drop the excuses and give yourself some much deserved and needed love, your body and mind will thank you. Think of it as a reward for being the hard working strong person you are and enjoy some much needed relaxation by doing one or some of the following.
1. Watch something funny
Watch some Internet cat videos, a favorite funny TV show, videos of babies laughing, really anything. Just grab something you know will lighten the mood and help distract you from the stress. Laughter has been scientifically known to help reduce stress levels and increase good cholesterol, so whatever your type of comedy is, watch it!
2. Workout
Get some endorphins boosting with a favorite form of exercise. Whether it's going for a run, yoga, walking your dog, or just dancing to a favorite song, exercise helps improve mood and makes your less stressed.
3. Meditate
This is a common one that people hear about, but never try. More people should try this though considering how great it is at quieting the mind and body, and helping one just think about the present. It doesn't need to take a while either, there are apps that help you through meditating anywhere from 3-30 minutes and can be done anywhere.
4. Use Essential Oils
Lavender is a popular one as it is particularly known to help with depression, anxiety, insomnia, and overall has a calming effect. Other oils that are known to reduce stress and boost mood are lemon, ylang-ylang, and peppermint.
5. Take a Bath
6. Do a favorite hobby
Draw, color, knit, take photos of pretty sunsets, etc. Focusing on something you like to do takes you away from stress and lets you focus on something that brings you joy.
7. Be optimistic and show gratitude
Gratitude journals are a great way to see what you are appreciative for. They also help boost your mood when you see a list of good things going on in your life. Being optimistic is also a great mind set to have as it naturally lets you look at the bright side of problems and helps you deal with things that cause you stress in a more positive and productive way.
8. Call or talk to family or friends
Different people may be able to relate to issues that are giving you stress. They also can give you an outside view of situations that can help you better cope with such things. Lastly, they let you vent and lend an ear which sometimes is all you really need.
9. Volunteer
Helping others makes you feel better about yourself and gives one a feeling of purpose. Some studies have even called the impact of volunteering the "happiness effect" because is it know to reduce stress and improve happiness, with results in their study to back up the claims.
10. Pet an animal
I know, not everyone has the luxury of having a pet live with them. College can make that tricky with dorm living, apartments with a pet restriction, or just being too busy with school and/or work to own one. If that's not the case for you though, what are you waiting for! Go pet your fuzzy four legged creature and let it take your stress away.
Happy relaxing!
