Taking time for yourself every day can help keep stress levels down and make you feel calmer and better. Small five-minute doses throughout the day can fit into any schedule and provide some grounding when you need it most.
Just make sure you’re able to immerse yourself in the present fully.
One thing you can do is reach for a travel book or magazine. Although you can’t physically go on holiday, taking a few minutes to look at some photos and take a mental vacation can offer a calming period of mindfulness. When you see beauty, you feel better.
Another quick option is to throw on your favorite album and listen to a few songs. Using a vinyl record or CD might be the best option, as research has shown these tangible items may lead to heightened emotional arousal. Vinyl may be best, but use whichever brings back a close association or memory.
A face massage can also be a quick way to get the benefits of mindfulness. Massaging your face and forehead can help relieve tension to help you refocus and refresh.
Keeping your hands busy may also provide some soothing sensations when needed. There is research showing that folding paper can boost concentration and mindfulness. Going online to learn origami or other folding techniques may serve as a quick stress-reliever when you need it.
Aside from your small escapes, be sure to schedule time into your day when you can delve a little deeper. Meditation, exercise, hobbies, and deep conversations with friends can all help ease stress.