Stress can take its toll on everyone. When people are too stressed, they tend to suffer mentally, emotionally, and physically. The body feels sore in so many places, the person is fraught with nerves, and everything that can go wrong will actually go wrong. Therefore, it is important to take a few minutes each day to relax.
Yet if you’re working hard to earn money, why should you spend it away just to relax? Truth be told, you can actually unwind without having to spend a dime. Here’s how:
1. Learn how to meditate
There are many free apps on iOS and Google Play Store that offer guided meditations. You can choose a particular meditation that appeals to you (for example, a meditation to have peace of mind) and to practice stillness for a few minutes at a time. This is going to be really effective if you set aside time each day just to meditate. You’ll feel better and lighter afterward.
2. Watch videos that appeal to you
YouTube has countless videos that appeal to different audiences. For example, some people feel relaxed by watching funny compilations, while others feel their stress levels subsiding when they watch pimple pricking videos. Whether you’re looking for eating competitions, reality shows, or even dramatic confrontations, YouTube has it for you.
3. Go on a social media detox
This is easier said than done, but once you are able to do this, you’ll actually feel tons better. Social media is riddled with negativity, what with contacts ranting and arguments sprouting left and right. Give yourself time to disconnect at least a few days per month – simply delete the apps, and resist the temptation to install them. When you reconnect, you’ll see that the world continued on, but you didn’t have to see all the cringe-worthy drama firsthand.
4. Play with an animal
Pet therapy has been prove effective in relieving stress among many patients. You can glean this benefit by simply playing with an animal. If you don’t have a pet, go to a shelter or to a rescue group, and volunteer your time. Who knows? You may even find your new best friend as you stroke through fur after fur.
5. Pursue your interest
There is nothing as fulfilling as doing something that you love. During your downtime, pursue your interest. Find old crayons and start drawing. Sharpen your pencil and start writing. Go out on the streets and take pictures. The possibilities are endless – listen to what your heart is telling you to do, and do it. Do not be afraid that the output is mediocre — as long as you express your passion, you are doing just fine.
6. Reconnect with good friends
Finally, an effective way to relax is to simply hang out or chat with good friends. You can just pick up the phone and call them, or simply initiate a conversation. Reminisce with them and laugh – you would be surprised to realize how laughing can keep your mood up and keep your stress levels at a more manageable length.
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