Our days can be stressful and sometimes it seems like there is no end in sight. When you feel like you barely have time to breathe, it’s definitely time for a little stress relief. Luckily there are many small things you can do to make yourself feel a bit better.
Like they say: enjoy the little things, so try to pay attention to those happy moments. If you need a reminder what those little things are, here are 15 stress busters that take just a few seconds!
1. Ticking something off your to-do list
There is nothing more satisfying than ticking an item off your to-do list, even if it’s something little and insignificant. The CGD team swear by Wunderlist, we love that we can share lists with each other and the little ‘pings’ to signify another to-do completed is super satisfying.
2. The smell of fresh coffee in the morning (and during the rest of the day too)
Even if you don’t like coffee you can’t beat the smell of freshly roasted coffee beans. On your way to work stop by and order your favourite blend, or just enjoy the scent of brewing goodness.
3. Your favourite song on the radio
Whether you’re listening to your favourite playlist or have the radio on full blast, nothing is better than having your favourite motivational tune playing in your ears. It will help set you up for a great day and can empower you through a particularly difficult work day.
4. Good food!
Feel free to enjoy those little treats. Indulge in your favourite snack or meal. There are some foods that are proven to boost your mood as well as being healthy and delicious, so why not stock up on them. Don’t waste time and energy feeling bad about treating yourself to your fave foods, grab a snack in the office or pick up some great organic ingredients and promise yourself a delicious dinner.
5. Dancing like no one’s watching.
My guilty pleasure is definitely Taylor Swift’s ‘Shake it off’. There are so many great tunes to bust a move to, find a moment in your day and shake, shake, shake. It’ll limber you up, boost your mood and release those all important endorphins.
6. A sweet text from someone you love
If you’re feeling down, reach out, send a few texts to the people you love. Start a conversation and be amazed at what a few funny or sweet texts can do.
7. Feeling the sun on your skin
Unfortunately it gets difficult in fall, but on a sunny day you should embrace the sunshine! Sunlight boosts serotonin, so the more sunlight you get the better your mood will be.
8. The smell of scented candles
Yeah, we love a good scented candle. There’s something so soothing about lighting a candle in the evening and curling up with a good book. As the weather gets chillier we love spiced scents and warm cosy evenings.
9. A nice stretch when you’ve been behind your desk for way too long
We know all too well that sitting at your desk all day can make you ache, and even make your bum go a bit numb. Give yourself breaks to have a little stretch, and try one of these exercises that you can do while at the office.
10. Shoe shopping
We love buying new shoes! Something about a great pair boxed and perfect ready to be worn with a cute outfit just instantly boosts our mood. Here are our picks so you can do your shoe shopping from the desk.
11. Getting a compliment for something you’ve been working really hard on
When your efforts get noticed it’s a huge confidence boost. Whether it’s a co-worker, boss, friend or relative, remembering those compliments can help you when you’re feeling down. You could create an inspiration journal where you keep notes of compliments and things that have made you feel great, and look at it whenever you feel down.
12. Good friends
No matter where you are in the world your friends are the support network you need to shake off the stress. Whether it’s a silly Snapchat or a catch up phone call, you’ll never know when you need a boost. See if you can recognise one of these 5 friends in your life.
13. The thought of the weekend.
No obligations, just you, your couch and a whole lot of Netflix. Planning ahead for your awesome weekend can help you get through tight deadlines, being called into the boss’s office and basically anything that life throws at you.
14. Closing your eyes and taking a long deep breath
It seems silly but a few moments of mindfulness can get you through anything. Do some meditation, download an app, take some deep breaths and visualise the perfect day.
15. Fresh, colourful flowers
Something about fresh flowers in your room or office space will absolutely brighten your day. Grab some from a market or order some, and take some tips from our lovely Pinterest board if you need some ideas.
Do you have any other stress busters to add to the list? Let me know in the comments below!
By Shelley Beekman