You know mediation, yoga, and going for a walk are good ways to destress. Better yet, hopefully you’re taking advantage of those methods. Aside from the standard stress busters, there are some unconventional and fun ways to clear your mind and boost your mood. Try some of these tactics next time you need a break.
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Color
Adult coloring books are gaining popularity quickly. Entrancing patterns that require focus on a single task are the perfect way to re-energize and clear your mind. Stop by a craft store or order them on Amazon. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you get hooked on this new hobby! Any type of crafting – painting, knitting, etc. – can be a relaxing and productive way to unwind.
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Go viral
That video you’ve seen on your Facebook feed over the past week might be worth a watch. Taking a few minutes to watch light-hearted and funny viral videos can boost your mood and bring you a good laugh. You can even sign up for daily emails from websites like BuzzFeed that will send something uplifting to your inbox daily. You can’t go wrong with “Dog a Day,” instant mood-boosting cuteness!
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Call Grandma
Few are more proud of whatever you may be doing currently than grandparents. Calling an older relative can provide instant happiness to you and your loved one. The surprise in their voice will brighten your mood, and you’ll get your mind off of whatever is stressing you out.
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Clean
While the thought of cleaning may not sound fun, cleaning cluttered areas in your home or office can provide clarity and peace. The act of cleaning provides satisfaction, boosts your heartrate, and relieves stress. Next time you need a brain-break, clean a messy area in your room or at your desk. You’ll be amazed – the extra clean space will transfer to a tidied up mind, too!
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Make Worry Time
It sounds counterintuitive, but, taking time to write down your worries can actually help clear your mind. Set aside 5-10 minutes on a stressful day to write. Include a list of what is worrying you, why it worries you, and the worst thing that could happen. Confronting the worst-case scenario will help calm your nerves as you realize it likely won’t happen.
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Perspective Check
Admit it, there are times when your worries and stresses seem like the biggest deal in the world. When that feeling creeps up, look at a picture of a starry sky or the solar system to remind yourself that often times your troubles are smaller than they may seem at the time.
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Reasons Reminder
Work, school, chores, etc. There are many things we have to focus on and succeed in, but just because they are a necessity doesn’t mean they don’t cause stress. During stressful times, remind yourself why you’re doing what you’re doing. Are you pushing yourself through school to provide a comfortable life for your adorable kids? Working long hours to save up for that beach vacation? Remind yourself of your reasons, your why, and take a deep breath.
Everybody is different and deals with stress differently, by trying something unconventional you may be surprised how well the methods work – especially if your usual go to is not having the desired effect.
Manon McGovern, creator of The Traveling Trainer, is a fitness and weight management specialist who loves sharing her passion for a healthy lifestyle. She studied Exercise Science at The Ohio State University and started personal training and teaching group exercise classes to introduce herself into the fitness world. She enjoys personal training and teaching Yoga, Spinning, KickBoxing, and strength classes. Now working... Read More
Rebecca Dawkins
Stress is very common nowadays, can cause many other health issues. There is one trick that works for me, meditation and exercising. It’s really stress busting. BTW nice tips! Surely going to try, Hope it’ll work for me too!