Self-care isn’t always easy in these busy modern times. Stress often prevails and we wind up overworking ourselves or switching to auto pilot. When I’m feeling stressed, I carve out time to do some activities I love that help me relax and forget the craziness of life for a while.
1. Go Outside
They weren’t lying when they said that nature was the best medicine. Nothing quite compares to getting outside and spending some time in nature. I love taking a hike, going on a walk with my dog (she appreciates this one), sitting at a campfire, or relaxing on the porch with a cup of coffee.
Getting out of the house and into the fresh air works wonders for your mental health. I can’t wait until the fall when I don’t have to avoid the hot humidity of Missouri summers.
2. Read a Book
Sometimes all you need is to be transported into a different world to forget about the stresses of the day. Since I was a little kid, books have been my way to slow down, imagine, relax, and escape for awhile. Nothing truly compares to that feeling when you can’t put a book down and become entirely absorbed in it. Check out all the books I read last year.
3. Head to the Gym
I’ll admit, I often have to drag myself to go to the gym. It’s one of those things that seems like such a hassle before you go, but is so rewarding once you do it. I don’t think I’ve ever regretted a work out no matter what state of mind I started with.
Working out gives you something else to focus on and provides a mental strength that’s hard to find anywhere else. Not to mention, when I used to go boxing, punching it out was an awesome way to relieve stress.
4. Take a Bath
I used to take a bath at least once a week, and I think I need to get that routine back. There’s something so soothing about sinking into a hot bath and I swear you can feel the stress leaving your body.
To add to the relaxation, I light some candles and play chill music (my go-to music is the Outlander soundtrack and Hozier). I also include a good book!
See a trend here? I’m guilty of warping pages with bathwater… maybe I need a bath tray.
5. Put Down My Phone
I’m not as good at this one as I wish I was, but it’s amazing how much better you feel in those moments when you decide to put down your phone. There’s less stress, less reminders of your worries, less comparison to others, and more focus on other, more productive, tasks.
If you have any good tips for fixing the bad habit of constantly checking your phone, I’m all ears!
Pick a Favorite Self-Care Activity to Stop Feeling Stressed
These are my favorite things to do when I’m feeling stressed, but self-care might look different for you! Think of some activities you love and try to do one or several of them when you find stress getting the best of you.
I’m prone to overthinking things and I know how hard it can be to unwind. What are your favorite activities to help with stress?
A bath is my go to thing, whilst listening to a podcast. Good points.
Listening to a podcast in the bath sounds like a great idea!