Things you can do to help de-stress

As the pandemic rolls on, the persistent nature of the virus reminds us of its ability to influence our lives, touching every aspect our society and affecting each of us in different ways.

With (at least) three lockdowns completed across the city, feelings of anxiety and uncertainty are completely normal.  But it is important to try to not let these feelings overwhelm us.  We have proven our strength as a community, and that strength and resilience places us well to meet the challenges ahead.

So to help you through this endurance event, take a little time for yourself and try some of these de-stressing activities to help you feel a little better about the world.  You've got this.

Do some gentle exercise

Walking, stretching and wading water are gentle exercises you can do to help get your endorphins flowing.  You can also try these great muscle (and mind) relaxing exercises. 

Strengthen your connections

When lockdown happens, try to remind yourself that it is a good opportunity to spend quality time with your loved ones.  No school work (or office work, for that) is more important that taking time to hug your kids or partner, look them in the eyes and have long conversations with them.  These gestures all promote closeness and boost oxytocin, a hormone that bonds people and calms the body.  When your oxytocin levels spike, they tell your body to switch off cortisol, the stress hormone.

Spend time with a furry friend

With many of us getting a covid-pet, know that you have permission to hug all the dogs, cats and bunnies you wish.  Petting and cuddling a fluffy friend gives you warm ‘n’ fuzzies, quite literally.

Tune into (instrumental) music

Create a playlist of the instrumental versions of songs that make you feel calm.  When you’re listening, try to tune into one of instruments being played and focus your attention on it for 20 – 30 seconds. Repeat by tuning into another instrument and continue this until the song finishes.  This is a type of meditative technique. You could try doing this to help ease you into sleep.

Smell a cuppa

That’s right, take a big whiff of your morning coffee or tea before you drink it. The scent of the drinks can be enough to help reduce your stress levels. 

Spend time in a garden or park

Various studies speak to the benefits of being in a garden without even needing to have a green thumb.  Surrounding yourself with plants has been linked to physical and mental health benefits, including slowing heart rates, improving memory and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.  So whether it is a walk at lunch time, or a green break on the weekend, get out there and connect with nature.

Complete a brainteaser

Solve a puzzle, crossword or Sudoku. The focus you devote to these brain-teasing activities can take your mind off your worries and give your brain a problem that has a clearer solution. 

Get on the phone/video call with friends and family

Lockdown, or even our reluctance to get out and about during the health crisis can result in reduced interaction with people outside your family unit, and that can be hard, even on kiddies.  Arrange a time to telephone/video call friends/family who you are not seeing as much of and share the phone around between the adults and children

Sing or dance

Whether you have a solo singing session in your lounge room or dance on your balcony, singing or dancing (or both!) to music you enjoy is a good way to unwind and boost your mood.

Salute the sun

Find a sunny spot, close your eyes and lift your face towards the sun. Take slow deep breaths. Sit calmly for 10 to 15 minutes (remember to be sun-smart if it’s a sunny day).

Be grateful

Write down all the things in life that you’re grateful for. Perhaps consider doing this each day. It can help keep you mind focused on being positive and give you a better outlook in the face of difficulty.

Look at photos of events you remember fondly

Dust off that old photo album or pull up your favourite snaps on your tablet. Looking at old photos from a day you enjoyed is sure to bring you joy.  Better still, call someone who was at that event so you can reminisce together.

Get wet

Have a warm bath, take a shower or take a dip in the ocean; getting into water can help you feel refreshed and relaxed.

​Create something

Draw, colour-in, paint, knit, write, cook – do any activity that helps you express your creative flair.  A great release for adults and kids. 

Take a nap

Sometimes when you’re feeling stressed, the thing you need most is sleep. If your mind is still going 100 kilometres an hour after you’ve hopped into bed, put on some calming tunes or a guided meditation and put your phone on silent.  Then slowly tense and release one muscle in your body at a time and drift off.

No matter what you choose to do, the most important thing is that you do take a little time each day to do something for you. Enjoy.

Source: beyondblue.org.au