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Between endless to-do lists, emotional curveballs and the never-ending pressure to “keep it all together” when it feels like the system is literally set up to fail you, staying on top of your stress levels can feel like running on a treadmill. You’re getting no where… fast! Now, add on a mental health diagnosis and you’ve just earned an extra layer of crap to climb over while you’re running for the life of you. Okay, slightly dramatic but stress really can feel like that sometimes and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Stress is common and something that the human mind and body is set up to manage. Obviously, our systems get a little fuzzy and malfunction sometimes and that’s okay. We can’t avoid life’s ups and downs but we can absolutely create a barrier that protects against the brunt of it all when a tidal wave comes through. These simple strategies for reducing stress will help.
Simple Strategies for Reducing Stress
With the right strategies for reducing stress, staying calm (or at least, calmer) when life—or even just the day—hits the fan can come to you naturally. But it isn’t just about what you do in the face of stressful moments. There is also another component to learning how to reduce stress that is often ignored and that is stress management. This typically occurs outside of the situation that is causing you stress. Think meditation, gratitude exercises, wearing a fidget ring to release tension and stress, and other lifestyle habits that help your mental health and cortisol levels (your stress hormone) on a deeper level. Try out a few different ones and see how they feel for you, and then add them to your anxiety toolkit.
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1. Pay Attention To Your Body
Your body is always speaking to you; you just have to listen. When stress builds up, it doesn’t always show up as racing thoughts or the big anxiety spirals that we often think of. Sometimes, it whispers through physical symptoms like ringing ears and stress or tension headaches. These subtle signals are your body’s way of waving a red flag, asking for rest and care. So if you suddenly notice sensations in your body, pause and see if there’s something your body is trying to tell you. Identify your current stressors and take intentional steps, such as wearing your favourite fidget ring so you can fidget and release stress, or diving into a self care routine.
If stress reduction strategies aren’t helping, it could be a sign of something deeper. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or take this free assessment for therapy for to rule out any underlying conditions.
Bonus Tip: An amazing book to read if you’re interesting in learning how the heal your body by addressing the underlying mental and emotional factors, you have to get your hands on You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay. She’s a best-selling author and there’s different versions of this book (they’re all great!). I’ve used this book to get to help with sciatica, panic disorders, headaches, indigestion—literally everything.
2. Connect with Friends and Family
Real connections are one of the most powerful forms of stress reduction. Whether you’re planning a future girls’ getaway, swapping nostalgic stories, or simply catching up over coffee, these are important moments that nurtures your emotional wellness. Having a trusted inner circle of people who celebrate your wins and catch you when you fall is vital for strong mental health. Not everyone has this in their physical day-to-day life but you can always have find that here with us.
Sometimes, simply knowing there’s someone to reach out to during a tough day or call for a late-night vent session (but not too late because it will keep you up!) can be the remedy you didn’t know you needed.
Watch this quick video to learn how spending time with friends literally boosts your health.
3. Disconnect from Unhealthy Relationships
Ever feel that knot in your stomach before seeing someone who constantly brings you down? That’s your body whispering (or shouting) that something’s off. Whether it’s a co-worker who thrives on gossip or a “friend” who drains your energy, certain relationships can quietly sabotage your mental health and make stress reduction feel impossible.
Pay attention to how you feel during and after these interactions. If someone consistently makes you feel anxious, smallor emotionally exhausted, it’s time to set some healthy emotional boundaries, both offline and online. Yes, even Instagram.
Here’s how to protect your peace:
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Unfollow or mute toxic people online. If it feels too awkward to unfollow, use the hide or mute feature to keep their energy out of your feed.
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Set clear boundaries with those you can’t avoid. Make it known that gossip, triggering topics, or passive-aggressive comments are off-limits.
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Limit your exposure to relationships that feel draining. If family dynamics are tricky, bring an ally to gatherings or have a backup plan to leave early if needed.
Distancing yourself from toxic relationships and establishing strong personal boundaries is a huge (and often, one of the most difficult) parts of healing. Remind yourself that you deserve to be around people who lift you up and respect you, and not wear you down (even if they don’t do it intentionally).
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4. Create a Calm-Down Corner
Sometimes, stress hits and you just need a safe space to breathe. Having a calm-down corner, like a cozy little nook you’ve made just for yourself or even just a comfy spot on a cushion to reset and recharge. It doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive. Aim for small adjustments, like:
- Soft lighting (himalayan lights are a fave)
- Meditation pillows
- Weighted blanket
- Candles
- Calming tools like these crystals for anxiety
This space gives your nervous system a signal that you’re safe and can finally relax and let you nervous system chill. Use it for journaling, deep breathing, or simply sitting in silence.
5. Try a Sensory Reset
When you’re overstimulated, grounding your energy will pull you back to the present. Do a quick check-in with your five senses: What can you see, hear, smell, touch, and taste? Keep soothing coping tools nearby, like a spinner ring, essential oils, or a fidget toy for fast, sensory stress relief. This gentle reset is especially helpful during anxious moments or transitions between tasks.
Make Stress Management a Daily Part of Your Life
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