1. Do some gardening
There are several benefits of doing gardening! Gardening has in fact been proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and decrease depression!


2. Paint a picture
It is scientifically proven that painting/ doing some sort of art reduces your stress levels. Getting lost in painting a picture for some hours will definitely slow you down! It also makes you more focused, creative and happy.


3. Get in the flow
You can get in the flow by making art (as mentioned above), but also by photographing, sewing, doing crosswords, meditating, bullet journaling or listening to music. To mention a few!

4. Go for a run
Or a long walk - whatever you prefer. 30 mins a day is all that's needed to get those happy endorphins in! A number of studies have shown that any kind of aerobic exercise can improve people's ability to cope with stress.


5. Read a good book
Reading books helps you to lower levels of stress, works as a tension relief and may even reduce depression and dysthymia! Focusing on the written word can help relieve your mind of anxiety and the pressures of the day. By pulling your mind away from the stress at hand, you can relax and let the stress melt away

6. Spend time with animals
Pets do not only reduce your anxiety and stress levels but they also reduce your blood pressure and promote heart health!


7. Be with calm people
If you are like me you easily get affected by others' mood. If someone else is stressed and anxious- you will be too. So try to be with people that are calm and relaxed. Not to mention: positive!

8. Write in a journal
If you are stressed it helps to write your feelings down. Put it on a paper and you will find it easier to let it go and relax.
9. Find a hobby you love
And do it every day! It can be any hobby you enjoy. Ideas on some hobbies are:
- Singing
- Writing books
- Baking
- Blogging
- Playing instruments
- Climbing
- Quilting
- Tai chi

10. Do the 5 4 3 2 1 technique
if you are feeling anxious or worried bring your attention back to the current moment with this simple excercise. Notice the following around you:
5 Things you can see
4 Things you can feel
3 Things you can hear
2 Things you can smell
1 Thing you can taste

