Unfortunately, stress is a fact of life, so we have to learn how to de-stress healthily. Most of the time, we de-stress through drinking alcohol, binging on junk food, shopping, and watching Netflix for hours on end. However, none of these methods will actually healthily serve us.
Most of the time, those things actually make us feel worse. When it comes to combatting stress, I found that two key components are essential.
- It must be healthy
- It must be easy
So I’ve come up with a list of 6 ways to deal with stress that are both easy and healthy that will have lasting benefits.
1. Get Physical
My ALL-TIME favorite way to destress is to get physical. And I’m not talking about Olivia Newton-John’s song “Physical.” I’m actually talking about moving your body. The easiest thing is to go for a short walk around the block. However, if you’re looking for something more intensive, you can do your favorite workout.
2. Unplug
We often go down the rabbit hole of social media, the news, or that randomness on the internet. By putting our phones away, closing our computers, and turning off the TV, we can help free our minds from unnecessary clutter and stress triggers. If you’re wondering what to do instead, there are so many ways to unplug.
- Read a book
- Go for a walk
- Do a DIY project
- Play a game
- Journal (see below)
3. Meditate
Now I know meditating is a new buzz word, but it really helps calm the mind and soul. Even if you meditate for 3 minutes, I promise you it will be helpful. When you meditate, do it in your own way. For me, I prefer to lay on my back in a quiet room. The key is to remove yourself from distractions. Yes, your mind will wander, but it will wander less and less if you keep practicing.
4. Drink Herbal Tea or Water
By drinking water throughout your day will ultimately make you feel better. Stress can create dehydration and also lead you towards unhealthy drink options. Water will ultimately make your body feel better and quench your thirst. Another option is to drink herbal tea. Herbal tea always has a calming effect and doesn’t have any caffeine, leading to more stress and dehydration.
5. Write in a Journal
As mentioned above in the list of things to do to unplug, journaling is also a great option to de-stress. Journaling can be as simple or as in-depth as you make it. Meaning that you could write a few bullet points, or you can write a novel. There are no rules when it comes to journaling. I find it helpful in stressful times to write in a gratitude journal. Reflecting on what makes me grateful reminds me of all of the good things in my life.
6. Listen to Music
Listening to music is a great way to de-stress. Of course, it would have to be the kind of music that makes you calm and peaceful. I know that listening to French music and my Florence and the Machine albums are my de-stress music. Once you find your stress free jams, create a “de-stress” playlist on your favorite music app and have it on hand when needed.
Closing Statement
All of these 6 ways to de-stress are free and are simple enough to do. The reason you want to make sure it’s easy is that you will most likely use the coping mechanism that is easiest.
How do you de-stress? Let us know in the comments below!
If you’re looking for more life and wellness posts, you can find them >>here<<.
Any of the brands mentioned above does not sponsor this article. However, some of the links may contain affiliate links which may generate revenue for the site when clicked, or when a purchase occurs. The information in this post is my thoughts and preferences.
Leave a Reply