If you're spending more time at home and away from other people, you may not have access to your usual outlets of relieving stress like going to the gym or group fitness classes [1], seeing your therapist, or spending time with friends or family. Here are some free ways you destress at home. These are fairly inexpensive, and even doing them for a few minutes can help uplift your mood and make you feel calmer.
Meditative Doodling
While sitting down and meditating can be beneficial for relaxing the body and mind, if your thoughts are racing, something it's too difficult to calm them with mere deep breaths. Try meditative doodling called Zentangle [3] to focus your attention and allow your thoughts to settle.
All you need is a black piece of paper and a pen and there are tons of free videos online [4] you can learn from.
Breathe Deeply With Calming Yoga
Turn the lights low, light a candle or two, put on some gentle music, and do these calming yoga poses or this de-stressing yoga sequence.
Do a 10-Minute Workout
Maybe sitting still or being calm actually make you more anxious, and you just need to move! Follow along to one of these 10-minute workout videos [5] to take your mind off your worries.
Get in the Kitchen
Baking or cooking is a stress reliever for many people because it allows you to be creative and to nourish your soul. Bake some sweet potato banana bread or vegan chocolate doughnuts.
If you want to go for something more savory and comforting, try these vegan pasta dishes [6] or these hearty bowls of soup [7].
And if making food in advance makes you feel more at ease, meal prep these coconut curried lentils with tofu and quinoa [8] or buddha bowls [9].
Foam Roll
As a form self-care and recovery, take five to 10 minutes to use a foam roller. This self-massage will feel so good on your tight, tense muscles. Try these foam rolling exercises [10].
Get Cosy With an Uplifting Book and a Mug
While it's good to stay informed about the issues of the world, if the news is making you feel uneasy, take a break and read something uplifting instead. Cuddle under a blanket on the couch with one of these mood-boosting books and a calming cup of hot tea or coffee can transform your negative feelings even if you only have a few minutes.
Use Your Phone For Good
While reading or watching stressful news isn't helping your level of stress, you can still use your phone to uplift your mood. FaceTime a friend or relative to feel more connected and get out some laughs. Listen to an uplifting podcast or audiobook. Watch some adorable dog videos [11] or listen to a meditation app [12]. Just be mindful about staying off social media if scrolling through heightens your anxiety.
Dance, Sing, and Let Loose
Redirect your frazzled emotions by turning up some of your favourite upbeat music and get your dance on. Let it all go and move your body in any way that feels good. Belting out the words could help you relieve even more pent up emotions and help you feel happier.