Ways to Relieve Stress {That Aren't Unhealthy}

It is so easy to come home from work and want a glass of wine, some homemade "nachos" and to binge watch Friends. Those are 3 of my favorite things. As much as I thought having a Monday-Friday, 8:30-5:30 job would make it easy for me to have a healthy, set schedule of work, exercise, and making good dinners, it's not. Even with a typical work schedule, it is hard to set a routine for yourself and de-stress. Everyone is different so it all depends on what you like, what type of climate you live in, etc. In Michigan we can't always get outside for something active, but there are other things we can do.

• Yoga. For you maybe it is running, or biking, or Pure Barre. For me, it's Yoga. There is no decision I am happier about, than getting back into it. I feel great every time I leave and it is definitely money well spent.
• Reading. They say at the end of the day before you go to bed, a good way to wind down is to read. I have been trying to turn the TV off by 8:00 PM and get off my phone. Now, if you're reading a real page turner, this might not put you to sleep. But for the most part it is relaxing and you can try some lifestyle or inspirational books for close to bedtime. Heck, even work on that adult coloring book.
• Adult Coloring Books. So reading led me right to this. I am sure this is only a trend coming in right now and will go right back out. But, maybe I am wrong. AND they work. When I got my first one as a gift I was excited but also like "wow how is this good to relieve stress" with how complex all of the pages are. But it really works. I promise. Do it.
• Tea. I love tea. There is nothing I love more than having my daily (or multiple) iced tea. I love my pre-bedtime tea. I love warm tea on cold winter mornings. How about tea after yoga? Or tea after yoga while you read? Sounds perfectly relaxing to me. 
• Vitamin D. As I said, in Michigan it is hard to get out in the sun year-round. But everyone knows the sun makes people happier, this is no brainer. 
• De-clutter. This may cause more stress before actually getting rid of it. But apartment living can be tough. I have a lot in my bedroom that is only in my bedroom because where else do I put it? Sitting in my room with a whole lot of crap around me, gives me anxiety. De-clutter however you choose, but clean things out. Get rid of things. You will feel better and guaranteed your apartment or home will look better.

So that's my little small piece of stress relieving advice! It may not sound as good as wine, binge watching Netflix and shopping, but I promise you will feel more productive after. 

Thanks for reading!

-Kait-