10 ways to de-stress
Meditation — Whether you’d like to use a guided meditation app such as Headspace or Calm, follow a YouTube video, or meditate on your own, practicing mindful breathing is an extremely effective way to decrease stress. Personally, I follow Alo Moves’ meditations every morning and they work well for me! Even if it’s for 1 or 5 minutes a day, it does make all the difference. A few of my favorites are Focus and Productivity, Stress Reset, and Restoring Balance.
Gratitude Practice — We have so much to be grateful for every single day. Every morning, I write in my gratitude journal, which has been pivotal for my personal and spiritual growth. Practicing gratitude is crucial to leading a happy and blissful life, and I encourage everyone to pause and reflect on the multitude of individuals and facets for which we can feel grateful.
Going for a Walk — Walking in nature is such a refreshing way to lift your spirits. I deeply admire and appreciate the trees, plants, flowers, and animals I see on my walks. I find that nature keeps me grounded and present. Whether it's a stroll through a nearby park or a hike along a scenic trail, carving out time for regular walks can be a simple yet effective way to nourish your well-being and recharge your energy.
Listening to Positive Music — Indulging in the uplifting melodies of positive music can be a rejuvenating escape from the chaos of daily life. Unlike loud noise, pleasing music can help elicit the relaxation response. Relaxing music holds therapeutic properties and makes a huge impact on the way we feel. There are playlists and YouTube videos curated specifically for stress relief. Check out Spotify’s Binaural Beats: Stress Relief.
Talking It Out — Opening up and sharing your feelings can be a transformative step toward relieving stress. Whether it's venting about a tough day at work or discussing deeper emotional challenges, verbalizing your emotions can provide a sense of relief and validation. Friends and family offer a comforting support system, providing empathy and understanding, while professional help offers specialized guidance and strategies for coping with stressors.
Spa Day — Indulging in a spa day is a rewarding escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, offering a blissful oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. From soothing massages that melt away tension to pampering nail treatments that leave you feeling polished and refreshed, every aspect of a spa day is designed to maximize inner peace and well-being. Treating yourself to a day of self-care and relaxation is sometimes much needed. Your mind, body, and soul will thank you for it.
Exercise — Whether it's a brisk walk, a heart-pounding run, or a calming yoga session, physical activity is proven to release endorphins, those feel-good chemicals that boost your mood and alleviate tension. As you move your body and focus on the present moment, worries and stressors seem to fade into the background, replaced by a sense of clarity and empowerment. Pick whichever form of exercise that speaks to you and let the stress melt away with each energizing movement.
Journaling — Through the simple act of putting pen to paper, you create a safe space to express your thoughts, fears, and aspirations without judgment. As you pour your innermost thoughts onto the page, you gain clarity and perspective, allowing you to confront and process your emotions in a constructive way. Jotting down daily reflections, writing ideas and thoughts, and the act of journaling as a whole offers a powerful tool for de-stressing and nurturing your mental well-being.
Eating Healthy — Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and walnuts, reduce levels of stress hormones, while complex carbohydrates, like whole grains and vegetables, can help stabilize mood and energy levels. Additionally, incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet provides a natural source of vitamins and minerals that support overall health and resilience to stress.
Decluttering — Organizing your space works wonders for reducing stress and creating a sense of calm and clarity. By tidying up your surroundings, you create a harmonious space that fosters peace of mind and relaxation. As you clear away clutter and organize your belongings, you free yourself from the mental weight of chaos and disarray, allowing you to focus more fully on the present moment.
