#1. Keep a Journal

I started journaling a few years ago, and I can’t express enough about how much it’s helped me organize my thoughts and calm me down.

Journaling is a great way to reduce stress, especially if you already enjoy writing. You can write about what’s stressing you out, how your day has been, or even just your random thoughts at the moment.

I’ve come up with so many ideas by keeping a journal, and my personal experience with it has been great. I’ve managed to keep my emotions in check by expressing them through writing, and highly recommend this hobby to anyone who just needs a way to vent their feelings.

#2. Unleash Your Creative Side

Painting, drawing, sculpting, or any other art form is an extremely helpful way to reduce stress. You allow yourself to express your emotions through artwork, and it’s a relaxing hobby for anyone who needs some time to themselves.

I will admit, art can be frustrating and stressful as well, and it occasionally is for me. But eventually I learned to just relax and enjoy what I’m doing, even if I’ve made a mistake.

If you have a creative side that you’re itching to express, then pull out a pencil, paint brush, or whatever tools you need and let your imagination do the talking.

#3. Play an Instrument

If you have a background in music, or want to learn how, then music is a great way to deal with your stress.

Playing an instrument lets you forget your worries and only focus on the task at hand. It’s also extremely fun, stimulating, and satisfying once you’ve accomplished your goal.

If you don’t know how to play an instrument but want to learn, then take up lessons in your local area or learn from videos online how to play. Also, if playing an instrument isn’t your thing, then listening to music is also a good way to reduce stress (as long as you listen to the right kind of music).

#4. Crack Open a Book

Reading is a way to explore a new world, educate yourself more, and live through a story as if it were through your own eyes. If you need somewhere to escape to, then reading is the best way to do just that.

Reading helps me forget about my worries and focus on doing something else. I’ve always loved it because it feels like you’re going on an adventure, even if you never leave your room.

We should all make time to read each day, because we once you settle down to open your book, all of the stress just disappears and the only thing you have to pay attention to is the story.

#5. Get Moving

Any type of exercise will do as long as it suits you. I prefer flexibility workouts or running for reducing anxiety, since I can zone out and not have to think about anything. Either that, or I can also use the time to think about something important, as well.

Exercising is both great for your mental and physical health, and the majority of people who exercise regularly and healthily will probably agree that it helps keep stress away.

#6. Meditating

I know we’ve all heard this before when we ask what reduces stress, but it’s true. Meditating has helped so many people, including myself, to clear their mind and focus on the important things.

I don’t meditate often, but when I do I feel so much more relaxed and am able to think clearly. It’s a great way to improve your focus and I recommend giving it a try.

Photo by Carolyn V on Unsplash