5 Stress-Busting Activities

When I share a blog post with you guys, it is usually based upon something I’m going through or a topic someone has shared with me. When it comes to the subject of stress, I believe we can all relate. And, if we have learned ways to beat (or minimize) stress, I believe we should share!

“: a state resulting from a stress
especially : one of bodily or mental tension resulting from factors that tend to alter an existent equilibrium”

— Merriam-Webster Dictionary definition

Excellent definition, but let’s put that in a way that’s easier to understand. I translate that as “physical or mental stress can be caused by factors that take us out of our normal or usual state of being”. Think about it the stress you’ve experienced…. school studies, increased workload at your job, relationship issues, health concerns, financial worries, etc. … When we are put in a situation in which we lose some form of control, we tend to begin stressing. That stress can expose itself to us in a variety of ways, as everyone is different. Physiological reactions to stress could be digestion issues, increased sweating, even increased blood pressure and pulse. Physical reactions to stress may include clenched jaw, tense muscles, and dry mouth. Emotional responses to stress may show up as feelings of being overwhelmed, being easily agitated or frustrated, low self-esteem, and even sadness. Lastly, cognitive symptoms of stress may present themselves and end up making your “stressful” situation even worse. These responses include worrying, forgetfulness, lack of focus and poor judgment. Imagine (or, remember, if these responses have affected you in the past) how these particular reactions could make a work or relationship situation escalate even more… definitely not helpful. So, let’s talk about how to bust this stress when it rears it’s ugly face in our daily lives!

While there is no substitute for getting professional help (spiritual or otherwise) when needed, there are some activities you can do on your own to ease the effects of stress. Below, you will find 5 actions that have worked for me. You may have already tried some of these before on your own, but some may be new for you. Either way, use this as reminder for when those stressful times arise, because they most surely will.

1. Get some sleep - This is one of the best ways that you can take care of yourself. Honestly, it is truly one of the most difficult tasks for me to complete. One of the most beneficial tasks for me is to create a bedtime routine. Start winding down as bedtime approaches, create the appropriate ambience in the room (relaxing and desired temperature), minimize work/household tasks, and shut down electronics! And, one of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve been given is to get out of bed if you find yourself tossing and turning after more than thirty minutes to an hour. When you get up, take yourself out of the bedroom and do a lowkey, calming activity. Those activities may include reading or light stretching, for example.

2. Get some exercise - I definitely know how important this one is, as I share this with my personal training clients daily. According to the American Heart Association, a good starting goal is at least 150 minutes a week. And remember, while I would love to have you, you do not have to seek out a gym, personal trainer, or group fitness classes to get your exercise. Make a commitment to just start moving more! The addition of physical activity will not only benefit your health, but it can also give you a release for your normal daily routine. That, in turn, can be a great relief of stress.

3. Reach out to family and friends - Hopefully, you have a supportive, safe space circle of people that you can count on to receive encouragement, when needed. If not, make it a priority to create that type of space for yourself. Establish a comfortable and confidential connection that you can count on. Also, be prepared to reciprocate, as needed.

4. Eat better - Another important task to focus on, and I do not use the word “task” lightly, is eating better. This takes your dedication and commitment to figure out what works for you, and then to continue on with consistency. Eating better doesn’t simply mean fruits, veggies, and lots of water. You may need to do the proper, in-depth research to find out which foods make you feel your best and which ones may trigger issues with your health, specifically your insides. What do I mean by “trigger”? Have you ever eaten something and immediately regretted it? Not regret from the standpoint of guilt, but regret because you know how icky it made you feel… think diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, etc. Doing some research, and getting to the bottom of what may be ailing you, may ease some of the angst and stress you experience or, at least, make it less taxing.

5. Find a hobby - If you already have a hobby you love, get back to it! Sounds easy enough, but sometimes finding the time to enjoy your hobbies can be stressful in itself! Does that make sense? Let me explain… If someone offers to share a great book they’ve read, but you’re not in the mindset to settle in a quiet space and read (or, maybe you do not have the time), don’t force it! Now, it may be just the opposite: you actually used to love reading, but just got away from it for a while. Their suggestion is just what was needed to reignite that passion for reading.

As I stated at the beginning of this message, the subject of stress is a topic I believe we can all relate to. And, if we have learned ways to beat (or minimize) stress, I believe we should share! I hope you learned something today, or were at least reminded of facts you already knew. While this list is not exhaustive, it’s definitely a start. The activities listed do not take the place of professional help, but can aid in your journey to less stress. Let’s take care of ourselves. There are way too many factors in this world that work against our wellbeing, so we must educate on that which is within our control.