Life can feel like an endless loop of deadlines, bills, traffic, and that annoying sound your car keeps making. It’s enough to make you want to drop everything and run for the hills. You could always go the old route - scream into a pillow or drown your frustration in cheese fries. But let’s be real: there are healthier ways to manage the stress without turning into a cheese fry monster.

In an age of “tough it out” mantras, many still think blowing off steam means blasting heavy metal or punching a bag until your arms feel like jelly. If that’s your thing, great. But there are other ways to release tension that won’t leave you with a sore neck or a headache. Whether you’re a gym rat, a gamer, or just need a break from life, here’s a list of seven stress-busting strategies. Let’s face it - no one wants to be the person who snaps at a barista because the latte foam didn’t turn out just right.

Buckle up - this is your guide to staying cool under pressure.

1. Move Your Body - But Make It Fun

It seems like exercise is everyone's first solution to everything, because it really does work that well and improve every aspect of your health, both physical and mental. Strength training is the closest thing that actually exists to a magical cure-all for weight loss, health, and disease prevention. But if you don't love it, staring at a blank wall while jogging on a treadmill is the definition of soul-sucking. The key to both a sustainable exercise routine and reaping the full benefits is to find something you actually enjoy. Whether it’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, trail running, or flipping tires at a CrossFit gym, choose an activity that excites you. I've recently started adding Caribbean Dance youtube videos for cardio a couple days a week and it is the most fun I've had getting a good calorie burn in a long time! When you like what you’re doing, the stress reduction comes naturally. Physical activity reduces cortisol (the stress hormone that has become a buzzword recently) and releases endorphins - your brain’s version of a vacation. 

2. Get Outside - Nature Is Your Stress Detox

Step outside and breathe in the fresh air – it’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to relieve stress. Nature has this incredible ability to calm the mind and restore balance, so you don’t need to go on a survival adventure to reap the benefits. I love to combine nature and exercise with long hikes and always feel so rejuvenated after. I always say that hiking combines my favorite activities: I get to exercise and be in nature and get to beautiful places and talk the entire time. 

 Whether you take a walk, go for a jog, or simply sit and read a book under a tree, time spent outdoors can do wonders for your mood. Can’t make it to a national park? No problem. A nearby park or lake is just as good for soaking up fresh air and Vitamin D - or even just relaxing in your own backyard. Nature has a way of helping you gain perspective, making those work emails feel a lot less urge

3. Smash It Out

Ever wanted to smash a guitar on stage or throw a plate like a soap opera villain? There’s a healthy way to release that anger in a healthy way with smash therapy. Whether it’s going to a “rage room” where you can break dishes in a controlled environment or setting up a durable punching bag in your garage, channeling your frustration physically can feel extremely good. Just make sure you’re doing it in a controlled, safe environment - hit things that are soft, not walls. 

4. Digital Escapes - Games for Grown-Ups

Remember as kids when your biggest worry was what game to play next? Life felt simpler back then - just endless hours of fun and no real stress and we used to lose ourselves in those moments of pure freedom. As adults, our stress levels seem to increase exponentially, so  bring back some of that joy and ease into our adult lives by tapping into that carefree gaming magic. Playing video games can be a great way to de-stress, as long as it’s done in moderation. Strategy games like spades or poker not only offer a fun mental challenge, but they also provide a break from real-world pressures. These games keep your mind engaged and focused, while offering an opportunity to unwind. Just be mindful of balance – too much time spent gaming can cause you to disconnect from reality. So, enjoy the digital escape, but be sure to engage with the world around you as well.

5. Tap Into Your Creative Side

Creativity is an often overlooked way to relieve stress. Whether it’s picking up a paintbrush, trying a new recipe, or tackling a DIY project, engaging in something creative can shift your focus and help clear your mind. Cooking, for instance, is a great way to ground yourself. There’s something calming about chopping, stirring, and seasoning - plus, Whipping up a meal can also be meditative. Even if you’re not naturally artistic, experimenting with simple, beginner-friendly projects can still be a great way to unwind and get out of your head. It’s not about creating a masterpiece; it’s about getting into the zone and enjoying the process.

Click here for my exhaustive analysis of the most popular craft hobbies!

6. Breathe Deeply - Yes, It’s That Simple

You’ve probably heard this one before, but there’s no denying it: deep breathing is one of the quickest ways to reset and reduce stress. It sounds almost too simple to work, but breathing exercises trigger your body’s relaxation response, lowering heart rate and calming the nervous system. Try this next time you’re feeling overwhelmed: find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four - repeat for a few minutes.

If you’re not a fan of traditional meditation, search meditation podcasts on Spotify - there are endless options on everything from anxiety relief to sleep help to a mental body scan (this only is the only way my ADHD brain can actually find meditation doable and helpful)

7. Indulge in Some Self-Care - You Deserve It

Sometimes the best way to reduce stress is by giving yourself permission to relax. You don’t need to book a spa day to practice self-care (though, if you can, go for it). It’s all about finding small ways to nurture yourself throughout the week. Run a bubble bath, pamper yourself with a face mask, or book that appointment with your favorite massage therapist. If spa time isn’t in the cards, prioritize things like a good night’s sleep, nourishing meals, or curling up with a favorite book. Plan your own perfect self-care day.

Self-care doesn’t have to be extravagant; it’s about making time to recharge, even if just for a few minutes. By taking care of yourself, you’re ensuring that you can better handle whatever life throws your way. And trust me, you’ve earned it.