My world has been crazy these past few weeks, I feel like every minute I have- I should be spending it productively. But, I've started to realize, when I take a few minutes to relax and breathe, it's the most efficient thing I can do.
We often forget that slowing down and taking a break from the hectic schedules of our lives isn't lazy or wrong, but a means of rejuvenation. The one thing you have to focus on when you want to alleviate stress is to think only about what you're doing in the present moment. I know it's hard to be consciously aware all the time, but try to invest yourself in the present for just ten minutes a day. Here's an awesome list of 50 stress relievers that take just a few moments, and will change the rest of your day...
1. Take ten deep breaths
2. Do push-ups, crunches, or pull-ups
3. Play with a pet
4. Take a short walk
5. Read an article in the newspaper
6. Call a friend
7. Listen to a song
8. Watch a video on YouTube
9. Play an instrument
10. Meditate
11. Eat a healthy snack
12. Spark a conversation
13. Make yourself a cup of coffee (or come visit me at java!)
14. Sit in the sun and get some fresh air
15. Doodle
16. Sing a favorite song
17. Dance
18. Drum on your desk
19. Count your blessings
20. Make plans to go out to dinner
21. Go outside and feed bread to the birds
22. Do a small favor for someone
23. Write a note to a loved one
24. Water the plants
25. Look through a photo album
26. Take a shot of liquor
27. Do a search on Google for “funny jokes”
28. Gaze at the stars
29. Get a back massage
30. Stretch or do yoga
31. Take a quick shower
32. Write a poem
33. Check your email or Facebook
34. Make a list of old things around the house to donate
35. Clean your desk
36. Try a word puzzle or Sudoku
37. Spend a moment with your children or family
38. Do jumping jacks
39. Scream at the top of your lungs (or into a pillow if you don’t want to disturb anyone)
40. Go to the bathroom and splash warm water on your face
41. Play a game of billiards or ping pong
42. Check the local weather report
43. Sit somewhere with good scenery (like table rock)
44. Make a list of things to do on the weekend
45. Recite a prayer
46. Daydream
47. Wash your face with cold water
48. Take a power nap (make sure to set an alarm!)
49. Read your affirmations
50. Cruise around on your bike
