POPULAR STRESS BUSTERS

  • Sweat out your stress with a high intensity workout. Or do the opposite: completely wind down in a tai chi class.
  • Spend time with someone who makes you laugh or has plenty of good stories that distract you.
  • Meditate, and learn to look at yourself with honesty and compassion rather than judgement and criticism.
  • Just stop. In other words, sit or lie on your own, and just breathe.
  • Grab some pencils and a coloring book. While you’re coloring in, you are slowing your thoughts and using your creativity.
  • Dance around the house to your favorite music. Or listen to music while you work.
  • Head outside for fresh air and a close encounter with the natural environment. Look up at the sky, watch for butterflies and lizards, and pick some flowers.
  • Visualize yourself somewhere that is idyllic to you, or with someone you love. Think about the sounds, smells and tastes of your perfect place.
  • Buy a plant. Simply being around plants is good for your relaxation.
  • Wiggle about. Starting with your feet and moving up to your face, try tightening and relaxing your muscles.
  • Tune out, or plug in. Turning off your screens and devices can help you switch off your thinking. On the flip side, watching a funny movie or talking to someone on Facetime can help you feel better too.
  • Eat a banana or a potato. These foods have potassium, which can improve your body’s energy and recovery.
  • Find a repetitive activity, such as knitting, wood carving or making jewelry. The simple act of repeating a skill with your hands can relieve stress.

Sources: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/Stress-busters.