Everyone gets stressed for one reason or another. Whether it be from school, work, family, friends, or whatever--you don't have to let it get the best of you! Here are 25 ways to combat your stress!
1. Get moving
Go for a run, an invigorating swim, a bike ride, do push-ups or jumping jacks, dance or maybe take a walk. Don't neglect regular workouts, as they cause stress to dissipate and produce "feel good" endorphin chemicals in the brain.
2. Take a hot shower or warm bath
Besides making you feel better afterwards because you are clean, showers and baths are great places to slow down and think about everything. Plus, the warm water will feel good on your tense, stressed muscles.
3. Spend some time with a baby
This only works if they aren’t crying or spitting up on you…
3. Pet a dog or cat
Studies have shown that petting dogs and cats can decrease stress and anxiety. This is why many colleges now have a therapy dogs come onto campus during finals week. Clearly these animals wield some kind of magical healing powers.
4. Read an inspiring book or fun fiction
I'm not really a huge reader, but, I have to admit, I am that person who enjoys reading self help books. My dad lent me this book called "Don't Sweat the Small Stuff and It's All Small Stuff" by Richard Carlson, and I couldn't put it down. It has a bunch of short chapters with tips on "how to not let the let little things in life drive you crazy." I highly recommend reading it if, like me, you are one of those people that picks up on everything.
5. Watch a favorite show
" Grey's Anatomy" anyone?
6. Talk to a friend
Talk about how you are feeling with someone close to you. Talking about it will allow you to think through things and move forward.
7. Write your thoughts in a journal
This is a great alternative if you don't really like talking to other people about your problems. I have found that if you write out everything that is stressing you, then you won't have to hold in your head and dwell on it anymore! This also applies to making To-Do lists!
9. Decrease your workload
If you feel like you are spread too thin, change something!
10. Smile
I once read somewhere that if you are feeling bad and you smile, it will confuse your mind into feeling better. Plus, "You're never fully dressed without a smile."
11. Sing your favorite song
Sing it loud, and sing it proud!
12. Clean your house/room/apartment
Hi, My name is Abi, and I am a stress cleaner. This doesn't make my To-Do list any shorter (unless cleaning was on the list), but it is much easier to get things done in a clean environment.
13. Learn a new skill
Learn a new language like Kevin Costner's character in the movie, "Black or White."
14. Go to bed an hour earlier
Everyone could always use some more sleep. Naps during the day are also super beneficial.
15. Join a support group
There are people around you that are currently going through, or have gone through, what you are going through. Reach out to them!
16. Spend time with family or friends
Hang out with the ones you love and have some laughs!
17. Yoga/meditation
Practice mini meditations, like saying to yourself, "Be present." This centers you and calms your mind from worrying about all of the things you have to do. Try imagining yourself in a relaxing place, or do some yoga and stretch for a few minutes.
18. Treat yourself
Give yourself a pedicure or a facial…or really treat yourself and get them done at a salon or spa along with a massage. Buy yourself something nice; it doesn't have to be expensive. Maybe you could do a different kind of treating yourself, and bake your favorite dessert or meal.
19. Engage in positive self talk
Replace every negative thought with a positive one. Remember that you can't control stress, but you can control your reaction to it. Try listing all the things to love about yourself (I promise that there are a lot).
20. Put on your favorite outfit
When you look good, you feel good. Of course, my favorite outfit is my boyfriend's sweatpants and a T-shirt, so it isn't all about looking cute. Just put on something that makes you feel comfortable and confident!
21. Be Creative
Art therapy is definitely a thing. I paint and color when I am stressed. It makes a world of difference for grounding me when I am getting carried away by stress. Plus, I get the added bonus of gaining a beautiful masterpiece once I'm done. It's a win, win!
22. Get out and do something
Plan a girls' or boys' night out with your friends. Do some volunteer work. Spend time in nature, and watch a sunset or sunrise.
23. Slow down
Take a few deep, long breaths, and try counting them. Take time for your favorite hobby. Play some relaxing music (I like the Calm Meditation Radio on Pandora) and just breathe.
24. Take A Break
It is okay, and actually necessary sometimes, to take a mental health day. Spend that time watching funny cat videos on the Internet or your favorite movie. Enjoy some well deserved down time.
25. Eat food / drink drinks that will relax you
Eat a healthy diet, drink some tea, cut down on alcohol and caffeine, and eat a citrus fruit because Vitamin C reduces anxiety! Also, and this is everyone's favorite advice, eat some dark chocolate. Chocolate can fix a multitude of ills.
Long story short: do something that makes you feel good, and the stress will pass.
