Refresh Yourself: Five Playful Ways to Mentally Refresh After a Stressful Day

Stress is a constant reality in our lives.  But you get to determine how it affects your life.   The stress response can serve as a navigator in crisis or chronic reminder of feeling stuck, restless, or agitated.  The good news is there are many effective ways to mentally recharge after a stressful day, from joyful playing, intentional self-care, and mindful meditation to getting outside and spending time with friends and family. It is important to find the one thing that works best for you and make it a habit. Remember that taking care of your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Listen to your favorite playlist or calming music

Research shows that the act of listening to music can slow your heart rate and lower blood pressure. So, the next time you are working on a project, driving home, or working out, throw on your favorite Disney playlist and sing to your sillies/wiggles (worries) away. 

Move your body with joyful expression

Exercise is a powerful way to get your body moving while winding down from a stressful day. It can be as simple as 5-minute jumping rope or working on a cool tree frog yoga pose. a tested method to get you moving, which releases endorphins to relax your mind. As you walk around in a park or neighborhood, challenge yourself to notice 5 things in nature, 4 things you can hear, 3 things you can touch, 2 things you can taste/smell, and 1 thing love about being nature. Mindful walking provides you a new perspective on things you are mulling over. 

Splish splash….take a fun bubble bath 

Studies show that playing in a bubble bath improves circulation, vascular function, and promotes sleep.  Bubble baths can be a relaxing form of self-care. Warm water helps to relax muscles and calm the mind. Try adding colorful bath bombs, bath paints, shaving cream with fun colors, and a bubble machine to add a playful spirit to it. 

Distract yourself by doing a hobby (i.e. reading a book, watching a movie, or play outside)

Hobbies provide a creative outlet for adults. Spending time every day working on word search puzzles, coloring pages, reading and/or listening to books, watching your favorite Hallmark movies, or playing with your cuddly pet calms an overwhelming mind. If you don't have your own, borrow or volunteer at a local rescue shelter. 

Create beauty with art and coloring

Working in an art journal or adult coloring book is a form of creative self-expression that refreshes the busy mind. Having a dedicated space for playful discovery allows your inner child to feel centered and grounded.


A gentle reminder from your favorite neighborhood play therapist, Angelique Foye-Fletcher 

Link: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/best-ways-to-manage-stress

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