11 Stress Relief Activities
Stress is a part of life. Letting it build up over time isn’t good. It can make you physically sick. There are times when I feel stressed out. Over the past few years, my stress levels have increased. At times, I’ve found myself stressed a bit. In the past, I would let it build up and become a wreck. Now, I actively find ways to alleviate stress. Today, I will share eleven stress release activities with you. They are things that most people can do. Let’s start with the first one.
Stress Relief Activities
1. Gym
The first thing on the stress release activities list is to go to the gym. Exercise helps to lower your cortisol levels, which are stress hormones. I’ve been to several gyms over the years. At one point, I worked out at a neighborhood gym. It was cool, but I knew I needed to do more, so I went with Planet Fitness.
Their membership costs $10 a month, which is alright. They have much better hours, and it’s a more extensive gym. They have a lot more weights and machines than my previous one. If you are serious about working out, consider finding a gym like Planet Fitness or LA Fitness. You will notice the difference.
2. Meditate
Meditating is something that I started about 3-4 years ago. I hope you do the same. Meditation has helped me relax and let go of things over the years. At times, stress and minor anxiety used to have my mind on overdrive. I couldn’t shut it off and calm down.
Meditation has helped. I try to meditate at least five times per week. I meditate using a few videos on YouTube. The relaxation techniques that you learn are priceless. Taking deep breaths and practicing mindfulness are just a few stress management techniques you will learn. Some people like to meditate during the morning, while others like to do it in the evening. Figure out what time works for you and try it. After you meditate, I bet you’ll feel better. Try using the video below.
3. Run/Walk
You can run or walk if going to the gym isn’t your thing. This is one of my favorite stress relief activities. I usually run a couple of miles in my neighborhood or go to one of the several parks or places that Atlanta has, such as Piedmont Park, The Beltline, or Grant Park. You will see other people running or walking almost any time of the year. Getting sunshine is good for you. It increases your serotonin levels, which in turn causes you to feel better. Every city has a park or path you can run or walk at. Once you find it, get out there and start decreasing stress.
4. Yoga
After a stressful day, yoga can help you relax your mind. It’s something that I need to do more of. I’ve heard a lot of good things about it. Studies have shown that yoga provides several benefits. It is said to make you happier. It helps you focus. It releases tension in your limbs, and it helps your body relax. Those are just four things that yoga can do. There are tons more. Sometimes you can find a free class. I suggest you check it out.
5. Listen to music
Listening to music is next on this list of stress relief activities. For me, it has to be a particular type of music. If I play some Jeezy or Young Dolph, it might excite me too much. That’s not what I’m trying to do. I’m looking for relaxation and trying to eliminate negative thoughts, so in most cases, hip-hop can’t do it. If I’m listening to music to relax and de-stress, it will probably be some R&B or Yacht Rock from the ’60s, ’70s, or ’80s. I can’t go wrong with Motown. Some other artists I listen to for relaxation are Hall & Oates, Chaka Khan, and Sade.
6. Essential Oils
If you are feeling stressed, you can inhale some essential oils. There are a lot of different types of oils out there. Two good ones are Frankincense and Lavender Oil. I dab a little bit in the room that I’m in from time to time, and they help me to relax. Many people use oil diffusers to bring aromatherapy benefits to different areas of their homes. Below is a diffuser that you can check out.
7. Going out with friends
Going out with friends is another one of my favorite stress relief activities. Hanging with your friends has been shown to lower stress. Being around good people and having a fun time relaxes you. Spending time with your friends can help you forget about the world’s stresses. They provide laughter and a small escape from stressful situations.
8. Massage
Massages are a great stress reliever. This form of self-care is something that I want to start doing at least once a quarter. Massages minimize your stress and allow your body to relax. They can also help with anxiety and make you sleep better.
9. Reading
Reading is the next thing on the list. I’ve read numerous books on various topics for the past few years. Books help people to get refocused and motivated. They can also help to keep your mind fresh. I feel like I’m old school because I like reading physical books much more than reading books on tablets. Below are a few of my favorite books.
10. Pedicure & Manicure
Many people get pedicures and manicures. Not only do they make your feet and hands look better, but they can also reduce stress. Pedicures and manicures are also said to keep your skin healthy and increase blood circulation. If your hands or feet seem tense, it may signify that you need a pedicure or a manicure.
11. Unplug
The final thing on the stress relief activities list is to unplug occasionally. Turn off the television, close the laptop, and turn off the phone sometimes. Humans weren’t meant to consume information 24/7. All that does is boost your adrenaline and have you feeling overwhelmed. Research suggests that unplugging from time to time helps to reduce tension.
Everyone needs to take time to practice some stress-relief activities. Our bodies will thank us for it. We all get caught up in the day-to-day lifestyle, but it’s not always the healthiest. If you suffer from chronic stress, headaches, tension, or feel overwhelmed, try doing a few of these activities. I’ll be doing a couple of them sooner than later. I want to ensure that I am always my best self. Taking time to learn how to de-stress actively is one way that I can do that.
Bonus
CBD is a compound that is found in cannabis plants. CBD has been known to help people relax and calm down in stressful situations. You can learn more about CBD by clicking the link below.
What are some of your favorite stress relief activities?
Jason Butler is the owner of My Money Chronicles, a website where he discusses personal finance, side hustles, travel, and more. Jason is from Atlanta, Georgia. He graduated from Savannah State University with his BA in Marketing. Jason has been featured in Forbes, Discover, and Investopedia.