1. Turn away from your screens: I know you’re looking at one right this very moment, right after you finish reading this just turn your screen off. The constant berating from social media causes your body to remain in an uneasy state. When you’re in a never ending scroll, envying virtual people with their virtually tailored lives, your mind can’t rest or recuperate from the actual stress you endured in the real world. Just do yourself a favor and step away from your phone and computer. You’ll breathe easier almost immediately.
2. Write: Some of my greatest bursts of inspiration come about when I’m distressed. Just sit down and pull out a pen and paper, or a computer if you prefer. It doesn’t need to be amazing, just write anything that comes to mind. You are your best friend, you can be your own therapist. Writing is almost like talking to yourself, except you can formulate your feelings into something the world may need to hear and relate with.
3. Go outside: This is absolutely one of the best methods for stress relief. It does include distancing yourself from technology, but it’s definitely worth it. Find a safe place to walk around or hike near you and just go. Being out in nature gives you room to breathe and think. The light exercise will release some endorphins, brightening your mood, and will make you feel productive. While walking, you have time to reflect and decompress. I recommend going on a walk almost every day to keep the stress at bay and possibly spark some inspiration.
4. Do your favorite things: Whether this includes vegging out to some Netflix/Youtube or taking a bath, take an hour or two to just be unproductive and relax. This is a hard one to put on the list because some people could turn two hours into the rest of their night (I know I can be that person), but this really is a great way to help your mind be put at ease before you have to jump back into that ten page paper. It’s beneficial to get your eyes off homework and studying for a bit and then return with fresh eyes. I can’t tell you how many times this has saved me during a programming assignment for class. So don’t feel guilty watching that episode of Rick and Morty, chill out.
These are some of my favorite ways to destress, if you have some great ways you like to destress please leave it down below so I could possibly incorporate it into my stress filled life. If you enjoyed this article, check out my blog and maybe give it a follow :)
Thanks for reading,
Xainba