15 Ways to De-Stress Beyond Meditation & Yoga

Being stressed out is practically a way of life for many of us. Lots of us get stressed really easily. At times like these, you can practically feel the cortisol (that’s the stress hormone) rising in your bloodstream and wreaking havoc on your body. Most people suggest yoga and meditation at times like this. Well, we already know that doing yoga and meditating relieves stress but, honestly, there has to be a better way.

Some of us just aren’t cut out for that, and nowadays feeling stressed is an almost daily occurrence. Believe it or not, there are lots of ways to relieve stress that don’t involve the go-to’s of yoga and meditation (not that there’s anything wrong with those things, but they’re not for everyone). For those of us who want more options, here are 15 other genius ways to de-stress.wp_*posts

Try Coloring

One of my absolute favorite ways to de-stress is by indulging my creative side with a coloring book. It’s sort of like meditating but definitely a little more fun.wp_*posts

Work Out

As much as many of us hate to admit it, the proven benefits of exercise for stress relief are many. So next time you’re feeling a little stressed, take a walk or a run, or even just lift some weights.wp_*posts

Reach Out to a Friend

Talking to a friend when you are dealing with hard times is great for stress relief. Having close buddies and family that you can open up to can help a lot, so don’t forget to call and ask for help. wp_*posts

Massage

Massages are a great way to ease some of your tension, and you don’t always have to spend a fortune to get one. If you’re boo’d up, ask your sweetie for a favor that you can return later on. Or get one of those foam rollers and work on your back.wp_*posts

Watch a Mood-Boosting Movie

Watching happy movies seems to truly improve your mood. Pick a classic musical, a contemporary rom-com, or even something made for kids like an animated feature. Then kick back and wait for all the good feels to roll in.wp_*posts

Keep A Gratitude Journal

Being thankful is a great way to find stress relief. Take some time to think about your life and write down the things and people you are grateful for as a good reminder to yourself.wp_*posts

Light a Candle

Good smells tend to inspire good feelings, like lavender or cucumber with mint. If you’re feeling extra anxious, light a couple around the house and breathe in the calming atmosphere. wp_*posts

Say Adios to Your Cafecito 

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but drinking coffee every day has been shown to increase anxiety. So if you’re really serious about finding calm, try to give it up (or at least dramatically cut down) for now.wp_*posts

Get Some Cuddles

Physical touch is really great for calm. Whenever you find yourself having an extra stressful day, ask someone in your house for a really BIG hug. Hold the hug for six seconds for maximum benefit.wp_*posts

Watch a Funny Show

Comedy is good for the soul since laughing has been shown to increase happy feelings. Yes, like, the physical act of laughing. So put on your favorite sitcom or watch a comedy special you love.wp_*posts

Listen to Soothing Music

Music makes us all feel good, but only a particular kind of music has been shown to relieve stress: Calming, soothing music. Create a special playlist and listen to it as needed.wp_*posts

Play with Your Pets

Playing with your furry critters is a great way to de-stress any time of day. Whether you have a cat, dog, rabbit, or any other animal, gather them up for some loving and you will feel better in no time flat.wp_*posts

Take a Hot Bath 

It’s a bit predictable, but we couldn’t end this list without the proven relaxation method of taking a hot bath. We highly recommend combining this one with candles and soothing music tips.wp_*posts

Create a Relaxation Space

Creating a zen space somewhere in your house is a genius move because it allows you to have a designated place where you can relax, read a book, and just have some quiet time for yourself. Hook it up with either a super comfy chair or even better, a hammock. wp_*posts

Stop Procrastinating

Tackling your To-Do List first thing may not be your idea of a relaxing day, but research has shown that if you procrastinate, you end up doing things reactively and are constantly trying to “catch up.” And you know what that does? Yup, it creates more stress.