17 Ways I Get Rid of Stress

Day 26

I'll divide the de-stressors into three categories.

1. Clearing the mind

2. Working through problems

3. Things that work for both 1 and 2

Clearing My Mind

• Read my favorite book

-Mine is The Outsiders, but just any book you like that will put you in a good head space.

• Work-out

-I know that when I work-out I'm not thinking about anything else, so if you need to clear your head, this is a good way to do it.

• Draw/craft

-This is a hobby I personally like, but any creative hobby can work.

• Re-watch favorite childhood movies

-You either get to relive the nostalgia, or make fun of how bad it is. My favorite movie to this day is The Neverending Story.

Work Through Things

• Journal

-Since I'm someone who is constantly overthinking things, it helps to write it down. You might pick up on details you hadn't noticed before.

• Call someone that makes you feel better

-Some people like having people try to help solve their problems, others just like to rant. Call the friend that knows how to make you feel better.

• Look at the big picture

-Not always, but 9/10 times I'm stressed about something that won't matter in five years.

Both

• Make a hot drink

-Usually tea, but hot chocolate or decaf coffee can be good substitutes.

• Tidy up my surroundings

-When I'm under a lot of stress I tend to shut down. Picking up is easy and reminds me it's not that hard to be productive.

• Cursive

-I like writing in cursive, trying different styles of writing. It directs your focus somewhere else and gives you small successes.

• Listen to my favorite music/ soothing music

-Most of us have specific songs that make us feel better. I personally like My Girl, Mary Jane's Last Dance, and You Make My Dreams Come True. Those songs always make me feel better.

• Go for a walk

-I have favorite places I like to walk to, but just a walk around the neighborhood can work too.

• Go into town

-Going out with friends with a pre-planned activity is almost guaranteed to clear your mind and have a good time.

• Take a bath

-I over-use this one. When I get into a bad headspace I over-shower, but in moderation this can be really nice.

• Stretch

-An alternative or something alongside working out.

• Cry if need be

-Sometimes stress is just a bunch of things built up and the best way to alleviate it is a good cry.

• Scream into a pillow

-Arguably not the best way to handle things, but it might make you feel better for a minute.