Let’s face it, we live in stressful times with busy schedules and all kinds of daily stressors like work-related issues, financial problems, and more. Here are 11 inexpensive stress-relievers to help you unwind.
11 Best Inexpensive Stress-Relievers to Help You Unwind
1. Take a Time-Out From Technology
Although gadgets like smartphones, laptops, and tablets keep us connected with the world, it also makes it harder to just relax and have some time for ourselves without any distractions. Oftentimes, we are stressed because it feels like the hours in the day are not enough. Try to take an hour or two per day where you switch off all electronic devices and just use this time to unplug and relax.
2. Relax in a Bubble Bath
Nothing helps you to relax like a soothing bubble bath to increase blood flow throughout the body and widen blood vessels which contribute to relaxation. Take a long bubble bath shortly before bedtime to get your body into relaxation mode. This can help you fall asleep easier.
3. Self-Massage
A quick massage can go a long way in ridding your body of tension after a hard day at the office. Stand up straight against the wall with a tennis ball lodged between your shoulder blades. Subtly bend your knees to give yourself a back massage. For the neck, you can clasp your hands behind your head and make tiny deep circles using your thumbs. You can also rub your jaw and forehead using your fingers to relax your facial muscles.
4. Listen To Some Tunes
Relaxing music can directly impact the nervous system. It helps with slowing your breathing and heart rate, signaling your muscles to relax and reduce blood pressure. Music genres like jazz, classical, or folk has a rhythm of 60-80 beats per minute, which induce relaxation and allow the body to calm down.
5. Pour Yourself a Cup of Tea
Green or black tea can assist with improving mood and reducing tension in the body. It might be something to do with the active ingredients, taste, warmth, and smell that contributes to this. Herbal teas like chamomile can also help with getting rid of anxiety and stress.
6. Do Some Gardening
There are various benefits linked to gardening and getting your hands dirty. When you plant and take care of flowers or houseplants, it helps your body to feel more relaxed. Houseplants have a calming influence and can even help with lowering blood pressure and soothing your nervous system.
7. Spend Time in The Outdoors
One of the best ways to unwind and allow the tension to leave your body is by spending time in nature and the outdoors. Just 20 minutes outside can go a long way in distracting your mind from daily stressors and negative thoughts. Combining relaxing activities like yoga or meditation with nature outings can do wonders with quenching the soul.
8. Consider Aromatherapy
Scents like vanilla, lavender, and jasmine are known for their calming effects. Add a few drops of essential oil in a diffuser or in a spray bottle mixed with water. You can also try candles or lotions with your favorite scents to help induce relaxing vibes.
9. Take a Nap
A quick power nap can help with reducing tension and boosting mood. Find a dark and quiet spot and allow your eyes to rest for 20 minutes. You will be surprised how alert and refreshed you feel afterward.
10. Focus on The Important Things in Life
Sometimes it’s not about doing more to relax but rather doing less. If you feel like your attention is too divided, like everything is coming down on you at once, it’s time to make a list and decide which is more important. It’s important to take time for relaxation in between to recharge your mind and revitalize your body.
11. Connect With Others
It is essential to have a support system of family and friends that you can reach out to when you’re going through challenging times. Spend time with people that are uplifting and have a positive influence on your life. Check-in with others to fill them in on how things are going with you and ask them about their lives and recent events. This is beneficial for both parties.
Final Thoughts
I hope that these 11 best inexpensive stress-relievers to help you unwind have inspired you to make a few life changes to improve your overall well-being. Self-care is essential to living a fulfilled and happy life.
Sending you lots of light, love, and relaxation-inducing vibes
Anthea