15 Fun & Easy Activities To Reduce Your Stress

How are you feeling lately? Have you been feeling stressed at home and at work? Stress can become a major problem for many people. It can affect your ability to work efficiently and productively. It can lead to health problems, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses.

But don't worry! Stress can be reduced using simple techniques that anyone can incorporate into their everyday routine. There are many choices for dealing with it, for example, going on a nature walk or finding time to exercise. You just need to put into action right now what you think can help you have more control over stress.

Here’s a list of 15 things that you can try today to reduce your stress. It's your choice which one your will pick.

1. Meditate.

Meditating on the Scriptures will not only refresh your soul, but you will also receive the strength that you need to go about your daily activities. You will also have clarity in mind and have a sense of purpose in everything you do. 

2. Go out for fresh air. 

The benefits of the great outdoors are well documented. Parks and natural areas have been shown to reduce stress, improve sleep, boost moods, and even reduce the risk of disease. Whether you head out for a walk, run, bike ride, or spend time gardening and weeding, you’ll feel the effects.

3. Practice rhythmic breathing.

Take slow, deep breaths. Inhale through the nose for a count of six, and exhale for the same count. Repeat several times a day or when you start to feel stress rising. Your mind follows your breath. When you calm your breath, you calm your mind.

4. Listen to calming music. 

Select soft music, preferably without lyrics or heavy percussion. Tame the mind and body with this sound, allowing yourself to turn off your thoughts and really relax.

5. Have a cup of tea. 

Taking time during your day to make a cup of tea is exactly what you need to reduce stress. Enjoy making the tea and then enjoying its beautiful aroma and rich taste. Make a daily ritual to enjoy tea time so you have a stress-free time to look forward to.

6. Get a massage. 

Massage is one of the oldest health treatments known to man, dating back some 6,000 years. It’s been shown to ease pain and improve sleep. Scalp, shoulder, or foot massages are great for reducing stress and a perfect way to end a stressful day or week.

7. Take a hot bath. 

A bath with candles and soothing music can certainly help you unwind, but warm water also stimulates blood flow to the skin. This improves circulation and brings more nourishment to your cells—and it relaxes muscles and eases tension in your body.

8. Read a book. 

If you find yourself stressed out at night, try reading to relax. Keep a book (or two) on your bedroom nightstand so you can practice this habit before bedtime (or whenever you feel stress coming on). Fiction is better for relaxation as it takes you away from day-to-day reality and makes you use your imagination.

9. Visit a new cafe or restaurant. 

A new environment can make you forget about your stressors as you have something novel to focus on. Eating is a wonderful way to reduce stress as you nourish your body, enjoy your favorite meal, and celebrate you not having to cook it!

10. Exercise. 

Exercise releases endorphins (feel-good chemicals) in your brain, which help promote relaxation and improve your mood. And, it keeps you in shape which makes you feel better about yourself!

11. Sleep. 

Insufficient sleep is more common among stressed-out people. Getting to bed on time, then making sure that you get enough rest each night is vital for maintaining good health. So turn off the gadgets several hours in advance and prepare yourself for a peaceful slumber.

12. Call a friend. 

Talk about your troubles with your friends. Part of friendship is being with someone through thick and thin. Schedule some time to catch up regularly. Not only does it give you something to look forward to, the human connection also helps your physical and mental health.

13. Clean something. 

Another useful way to reduce stress is to clean. Cleaning your home or office creates order from disorder, which can help you feel better. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment when the job is done.

14. Volunteer your time to a good cause. 

Helping others can take your mind off your own problems. It also helps you develop a sense of purpose and belonging, which is vital to keeping stress in check.

15. Adopt a pet.

Studies have shown that pets can help lower blood pressure and anxiety, improve socialization skills, boost energy, and of course, increase your overall happiness. Plus, you serve as wonderful support for each other.

Stress is a choice. The same is true with the activities you choose in order to reduce the impact of stress on your life. The bottom line is that there are many simple things you can do to reduce stress right now.

The next time you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, try these simple activities which have been shown to relieve the symptoms of chronic stress and anxiety and see your life change for the better.