Almost everyone experiences stress from time to time. Whether it’s because of work, school, or relationships, stress creeps up on people — and it’s often difficult to shake off. And right now, because of what’s happening all over the globe with COVID-19, stress seems to be a daily component of many people’s lives. The world is facing challenging uncertainty, and you must treat yourself with kindness and engage in stress-free activities.
In addition to healthy eating and regular exercise, you can also try the following hobbies that can reduce stress.
Knitting
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Knitting is not only fun to do, but studies show that it reduces stress and anxiety due to its repetitive, soothing action. If you’re unsure where to find the right knitting tools, you can browse yarn bundles online at Yarnspirations — your resource for the best yarns and all of your knitting needs.
Knitting offers an escape for the mind while also providing your hands with something to do. It’s a gentle activity that calms the nervous system as well as the brain — much like meditation. And you’ll feel so proud when you finish your first project!
Don’t forget to take baby steps — you don’t have to knit an entire summer wardrobe on your first try. Look for more simple patterns of items such as cup coasters or a scarf.
Gardening
Are you someone who assumes they lack a green thumb? Well, you’d be surprised at how simple setting up a basic garden can be. Even if you live in smaller quarters with a tiny balcony, you can still assemble a garden using pots and hanging baskets.
Recent studies have shown that gardening lowers the stress hormone cortisol, heightening people’s moods more than other leisure activities such as reading. When you garden, you’re becoming closer to the earth — planting life and helping it grow. It’s a healing process to tend to other living things.
Once your garden starts to grow, whether it’s plants, herbs, or colourful flowers, it will bring you a joy that is unlike anything else — because you created it!
A Daily Journal
Every morning, write down your thoughts in a journal. Practicing this ritual will not only reduce your stress levels but also help any anxiety or depression. Writing down your thoughts helps clarify your emotions and encourages you to reflect on your feelings healthily. There are no rules for keeping a journal — you can write whatever and however you want. It’s a therapeutic exercise that can alleviate years of anxiety and stress.
It also provides the opportunity to get creative! You don’t have to stick with writing down hopes and dreams — try your hand at poetry or fiction. It’s a great way to distract yourself with something both personal and meaningful.
Stress is a natural part of life, but you can tend to it in healthy ways. The next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, pick up some yarn, plant a flower, or write in a journal! You’ll be shocked at how much better you’ll feel.
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