How to Relieve Stress
Stress is an unfortunate part of life that can sometimes be difficult to deal with. Over the years, I have found a few ways of coping with those overwhelming feelings.
– Listen to upbeat music
Upbeat music is my go-to cure for stressful times. I found that if I listen to slower ballads, I look into the lyrics too much and end up feeling blue. Upbeat pop songs are associated with some of my more pleasant memories, so I let my mind drift back to those happy feelings.
– Watch a tv show
New Girl, The Office, and Gilmore Girls are a few of my favorite tv shows to turn to for a distraction. These light-hearted shows are perfect for easing into a happier mood.
– Put on pajamas
Nothing is better than being cozy after a stressful day. Curling up under a warm blanket in my pajamas helps me to relax and ease out of my stressed mindset.
– Read
Reading has always been one of my favorite hobbies. Getting lost in a book is a temporary vacation from the current situation that is stressing me out. My comfort series is The Hunger Games, but I also recommend picking up a John Grisham novel for a good escape.
– Breathing exercise
My FitBit has a breathing exercise function that I utilized quite a bit when I was in high school. You can also search some up on YouTube or the Calm app to lower your heart rate. It does wonders for slowing down your panicked thoughts.
– Shower
A nice shower gives you a task that you can do without thinking about it too much. You can let yourself go into autopilot and turn your brain off for a few minutes. Before you know it you’ll be feeling refreshed and calmer.
– Light a candle
Candles remind me of Christmas, so I like to light them on bad days. My favorite scents are something with vanilla in it or apple spice. Keep a candle on your shelf that triggers pleasant memories in case of an emergency.
– Make a snack
Sometimes a full stomach is all you need to get back on track. I try to keep my pantry filled with healthy snacks that will make me feel better after eating. Fruit, vegetables, and trail mixes are a few of my favorites, but I also like eating dry cereal when I am particularly stressed (especially cheerios.)
Do you have any other secrets to relieving stress? Comment them down below!
ashleyohare 