This has been a very stressful year to say the least. We are in the middle of a pandemic, the most important election ever, and our own personal stresses as well. The year of 2020 is definitely taking a toll on our mental health. So, here are some things that I am doing to unwind and de-stress. Hopefully it can help you out too!
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Listening to music: Music has always been very important to help me decompress and zone out. Lately, I have been listening to Ariana Grande’s new album, Positions. It’s a good album to just jam out to. Obviously, there are different genres of music/tastes, so I encourage you to find your go to song!
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Netflix/Hulu: These streaming services are amazing since you can just binge watch episodes and escape from the real world. I’ve been hooked on The Fosters spinoff, Good Trouble. It follows Mariana and Callie after college living their lives in Los Angeles. It also educates people on social issues, so that is always a plus. Also, there are a lot of cute people on the show!
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Art: Okay, so lately I have been very into coloring books. I think they are a great way to decompress since it’s just coloring. It allows the inner artist in yourself to appear, while lowering your blood pressure.
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Cleaning: Hear me out on this one. I know it doesn’t seem enticing to clean when stressed, but it really can help. If you declutter your space, you declutter your mind. Just make sure to put on some music to encourage you. You’ll feel better too since everything is nice and clean!
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Move: I find taking mindful walks to be very therapeutic. I leave my headphones at home & just listen to my surroundings. It’s just me, my dog, and nature. It’s nice to just escape from technology and focus on what’s happening around me.
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Talking/Journaling: It can help to write your feelings down or talk to someone. I know it can seem hard to open up, but your friends and family are there for you. Don’t hold onto whatever is bothering you. You don’t want to run yourself down. It’s okay to ask for help.
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Cry: Sometimes crying can be the most therapeutic thing to do. A good cry never hurt anyone! I know I usually feel better after a good cry. So never feel ashamed to let it all out.
I hope some of these tips help you. I know there’s a lot going on, but you got this! All we can do is have hope and keep on going. We’ll get through this together.