Whether it's the election, school or just everyday life we are all a little stressed and need some cheering up. Here are five nice ideas to help you destress rest and feel your best.
1. “Treat yo’ Self”
Everybody deserves a reward every now and then, and let's face it: you've been working really hard. You deserve this. Treating yourself doesn't have to mean going on a wild shopping spree and spending all your money, it can mean breaking your diet for a day and having a cupcake or spending some extra time and taking a bubble bath instead of a shower. Treating yourself just has to mean taking a quick break and appreciating all the work you do.
2. Exercise.
Exercise is proven to boost endorphins, which lowers stress levels. It doesn't have to be anything fancy but taking a quick jog around the park or trying some new yoga poses can allow you to sweat away your problems, at least temporarily.
3. Pet a dog
Being near and comfortable with an animal can often be extremely therapeutic. When you pet a dog or cat your brain releases significant amounts of the “love hormone” oxytocin, which as a result can bond you to that animal while lowering your heart rate and blood pressure. If you don't have a dog or cat to chill with check out a shelter in your area, many allow volunteers to come in and play with the animals in order to socialize them and help them get adopted.
4. Take a breath
Take a breath and let your mind wander, this will slow your heart rate and allow you to relax. Breathing in and meditating can significantly lower blood pressure and allow relaxation.
5. Watch something you enjoy
Watching something you enjoy allows you to take a second for yourself and increase your happiness levels, whether that is a nice show on Netflix or cat videos, as long as it makes you smile it's worth it, and if you are having trouble finding something to watch check out a livestream like this one featuring kittens or this jellyfish cam.
