If you’re the kind of person who quickly flies off the handle at the slightest inconvenience (like most of us!), you might have experienced trouble setting aside time to unwind. However, it’s essential that you take the time to destress. According to healthcare professionals, relaxation techniques can increase our mood, reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, and reduce our susceptibility to other health risks like heart disease and stroke.
And while you might have heard of traditional relaxation methods like meditation or listening to a ‘calming’ playlist on Spotify, sometimes you need something fast-acting and non-conventional to help you quickly destress your mind/body.
This is why we’ve created this article outlining several unconventional, fast ways to promote relaxation, from having a cold shower and playing online slots (or other online games!) to making yourself laugh and booking a much-needed appointment. Whether you’re dealing with after-work stress or need to let your hair down after back-to-back weeks alone with the kids, keep reading to find the best unconventional way to destress below.
Take A Cold Shower
While you may have heard of having a hot bath to lower heightened stress levels, dropping everything, and having one in the heat of the moment can be challenging. On the other hand, a cold shower is much more achievable since you can be in and out within minutes (and you don’t have to wait for it to run, either!).
Although having a cold shower might sound like an impossible gameshow challenge, many benefits have been linked to having cold showers, ice baths, etc., with one of the most significant being reducing negative emotions like depression, anxiety, and stress. As the cold water hits your body and it goes into shock, endorphins are released, and blood circulation is improved, which can help increase morale and foster more positive emotions.
However, while the benefits of cold showers are promising, it’s essential to introduce yourself to colder temperatures and increase exposure gradually to avoid discomfort or going into shock. Plus, if you are subject to any health concerns or taking medication, it’s also best to approach your GP first for their advice before making any changes to your routine.
Play Online Games
For many gamers, nothing is better than heading home after a hard day at work and playing a few rounds of their favourite RPG or MOBA. Yet, while cosy RPGs like ‘Stardew Valley,’ can help people relax, MOBAs like ‘League of Legends,’ can be more tiring due to their fast-paced nature. However, the good news is that all games play a part in helping you relax, no matter their gameplay.
Playing online games can reduce stress in the following ways:
- Video games present players with a fun challenge and reward them for besting it.
- Playing video games can create a flow state, like meditation.
- Video games help bring people together for socialising purposes, which is proven to help people unwind.
- Playing games helps people take their minds off what is causing them stress.
Fortunately, you don’t need a video games console to play games anymore; you can find a variety online, from online slots and battle royales to role-playing games and stimulation. Some of the most popular casino games to play online are through an online casino such as the ones listed on Online Casino Review, where you can find reputable providers of slot games, card games, etc.
Consider visiting their site to browse the best-reviewed online casinos, read how-to guides, discover the latest industry news etc. and see how their recommendations could help you find a reputable, safe place to play slots and many other casino games to help destress your mind and body after a long day.
Make An Appointment
Another unconventional way to destress your mind/body is by scheduling an appointment that you’ve been putting off for a while. Whether it’s an infill for your nail extensions, a full leg wax, a haircut, etc., booking something that has been niggling you in the back of your mind for weeks can give you a sense of relief because it’s one less thing to worry about.
Not to mention (providing that it’s a pleasant appointment!) having something to schedule into your calendar gives you something to look forward to, which can also do wonders for lifting your spirits and making you feel less stressed. So, even if you feel stressed further down the line, you can think about your upcoming appointment and feel slightly better.
Laugh A Little (Or A Lot!)
It is often said that laughter is the best medicine, and it’s entirely true! There are no downsides to laughter (so long as you haven’t burst out laughing in an incredibly awkward situation!), and the best thing is that it’s completely free.
Unbeknownst to many, as well as making us feel better, laughing is good for reducing our stress levels since it reduces stress hormones and increases the production of health hormones, which can improve our mood, boost morale, and send stress packing.
So, the next time you feel like an angry, red demon, consider calling up your closest friend and chatting rubbish to them, put on your favourite stand-up act, or sit on the sofa and allow TikTok to take your mind off it.