5 Ways to Manage Stress (that aren’t Meditating
May 31, 2017
Managing stress isn’t easy. Many people recommend meditation, but it isn’t effective for everyone. I’ve tried meditation many times, but I have a hard time focusing and not letting my mind wander. Here are some other ways I’ve found to ease stress.
Work Out
You’d be surprised how much a good workout can help your stress level. Working out means different things to everyone. Take a long walk after dinner or start your morning with a core workout that leaves you sweaty and breathless. Jump on the trampoline with the kids for an hour, or join a recreational soccer league. Just make sure to get your heart pumping.
Get Artsy
I love coloring in adult coloring books when stress gets to be too much. I grab my gel pens and my favorite coloring book and lose myself for an hour. It’s great to let go of your worries and pretend you’re five again. If you’re artistic, you can get the same release from sculpting pottery or watercolor painting.
Use Scents
Aromatherapy is proven to help people relax, and there are many ways to incorporate this solution. Enjoy a cup of peppermint and chamomile tea and breathe deeply. Light your favorite essential oil candle and curl up on the couch with a book. Lose yourself in a hot bubble bath with your favorite lavender-scented body scrub.
Let it Out
Sometimes at the end of a tough day, it helps to get it all out of your system. This may mean crying on your best friend’s shoulder or screaming at the top of your lungs in the shower. Throw a few punches at a punching bag or practice your karate kicks at the dojo.
Write it Down
Writing down your feelings may help you to deal with them and release the stress they cause. You can do use an old-fashioned diary, or consider writing and doodling in a journal. You can even write a letter to an imaginary person if that helps you work out your feelings.
What’s your favorite way to manage stress?
