10 Ways To De-Stress During COVID-19
Updated: Jan 16, 2022
Most people intimately know stress these days. Adrenaline rushes through our bodies as we try and deal with a whiny toddler, a teenager, the ticking watch or chirping apple watch on our wrist as we sit in traffic on the way to try to beat the deadline at work that seems almost always impossible to make.
“Stress is an ignorant state. It believes everything is an emergency.” — Natalie Goldberg.
TRY ONE OF THESE TEN WAYS TO DE-STRESS
Change your environment Do something pleasurable or relaxing for a little while such as reading, watching TV, or taking a shower. If at work, step outside for a few minutes and get some air.
Practice mindful breathing Focus on your breath, pushing all other thoughts aside. Be conscious of the breath coming in your nose and going out of your mouth. Trace your breathe.
Meditate This does not mean sitting crossed legged on the floor and burning incense. Meditation is really about quieting the mind intentionally. Not reacting; just noticing. It doesn't have to be a long mediation. Even a minute can make a difference. Be in the moment noticing everything around you and just observe without reacting.
Pray Often, one’s faith can be a comfort. Saying a prayer or series of prayers throughout the day can be calming.
Do relaxation exercises Practice tensing and then releasing each of your muscle groups.
Exercise Exercise can be a great stress reliever. This can provide some perspective so you can return in a new frame of mind.
Practice a rhythmic activity Walking or running are great rhythmic activities that readjust your focus and relieve stress. You can also drum on a table with your hands or a few pencils.
Start a creative outlet Cooking, baking, art or photography can take you away from the stress at hand.
Express your feelings Write in a journal, take out your colored pencils and paper and focus your concentration on drawing, or have coffee with a friend and talk.
Be in the moment with one of your senses Sight, smell, sound, and taste—you’ll be amazed how quickly the stress melts away when you focus on just one of them. Eat something. Breathe in your favorite scent. Listen to a piece of music. Look at something beautiful.
If one method doesn’t work for you, try another one. De-Stressing takes practice. Be patient with yourself and you will receive the benefits.
If you feel that nothing seems to help. Seek help from a professional.