1. Find a Hobby
Explore different hobbies and activities to find something you just love to do. It could be model building, needlepoint, cooking, gardening, playing an instrument--anything that gives you enjoyment but at which you don't feel pressure to excel. You'll know you've found the right hobby when you feel relaxed and almost oblivious to the world around you while you're doing it. Minutes, even hours, may pass without you even realizing the time. This is called a "flow state," and it can have a marked effect on reducing stress. It's a good idea to find at least 30 minutes to an hour each day or every other day to focus on your hobby.
2. Exercise
Exercise is universally considered one of the best activities available for those who want to reduce stress. Go for a long walk in the morning (20 minutes or more), or head to the gym during the day or after work. Exercise burns off pent-up energy and helps tire you out from a long day. Endurance training is good for long-term stress relief, while weight training is ideal for short-term in-the-moment stress relief. Speak to your doctor about an exercise plan that would be right for you. Another great way to reduce stress through exercise is with yoga. Yoga increases endurance and muscle strength but also emphasizes relaxation and meditation during practice. The meditative, seated positions are perfect for relaxation.
3. Take a Vacation
This may sound like a no-brainer, but being able to take a few days off from the daily grind is very important. You may not have the finances available to go to the Caribbean, but even a long weekend in a nearby resort or a day at the spa can help to dramatically relieve stress. It's a combination of the change of scenery and the knowledge that your time is your own.
4. Get a Massage
We often store our stress in our muscles, tightening them to the point of creating knots in our bodies. Not only is this painful, but also contributes to our ongoing stress. Visit a massage therapist to work out the kinks and help loosen up your body. Loosening the muscles helps to release the tension and can have a profound impact on our stress levels.
