- Instead of checking emails or scrolling through the latest political rants on social media, why not start the day off by ditching the electronics and donning your sneakers? By taking a brisk morning walk, you’ll reap the benefits all day – and night. Studies show that walking for 30 minutes can help reduce stress, boost mood, and increase sleep quality.
- Take breaks throughout the day to focus on you, even if it’s just for a few minutes at a time. Get up and walk around and stretch every half hour or so.
- Try this mindful deep breathing. Did you know that by breathing deeply through your belly you can actually trick the brain into relaxation mode?
- Avoid the vending machine or fast food joint and instead spend your lunch break refueling with these stress-busting foods: shitake mushrooms (cooked or sautéed), dark leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, flaxseed, sweet potatoes, avocados, herbal tea or water, dark chocolate.
- Don’t have time for a professional massage? Unwind with progressive muscle relaxation. Learn how to do this easy (and free!) technique here.
- Can’t afford to take a vacation right now? This free guided mediation will take you on a peaceful journey to a secluded island anytime you need to escape the stress of everyday life.
- Pet your pooch! Research suggests that snuggling with our furry friends lowers blood pressure, decreases heart rate and cholesterol levels, and boosts immune system.
- Zone out with a coloring book. Not only are adult coloring books growing in popularity, but studies show that coloring is linked with reduced stress and anxiety. Grab your free coloring sheets here or check out this animal-themed book!
- Eliminate toxins from your body and heal achy muscles with a soothing salt bath:
- Dissolve half a cup to one cup of course sea salt, mineral salt, or Himalayan salt into a warm bath.
- For extra relaxation, add 15 to 20 drops of lavender essential oil.
- Soak for up to 20 minutes.
- Drink plenty of water after to rehydrate.
- Just before bedtime, relax by ending the day on a positive note. Jot down three positive things that happened during the day or three things you’re grateful for. Both positive and gratitude journaling have a myriad of health benefits, including stress reduction, better sleep, and improved mood.
