‘Fixing’ stress is the ever-elusive target for most of us busy people (along with figuring out the key to happiness). No matter what we try, stress manages to find its way back into our lives. And realistically, this is a good thing! It motivates us (although it’s not about running away from a lion these days….more likely to get that project turned in on time).
But, every once in a while, we need to check in on ourselves. Maybe the little daily tricks, like a 10-minute meditation or keeping hydrated, are just not cutting it, or they are starting to feel a bit like a chore. Or maybe you are looking for a way to spice up your relaxation techniques.
Trying a new method of stress relief can be useful in so many ways — it can be an open door to the discovery of your new favourite activity, bring a little excitement to the mundane, or just be a nice way to spend some time with yourself!
Keep reading for tips on alternative ways to find that inner peace we are all craving!
Acupuncture
Traditional Chinese Medicinal techniques, such as acupuncture, are met with varying responses. Some people are immediately intrigued whereas others brush it off as ‘woo woo’. But regardless of your stance on its effectiveness medically, acupuncture can be a great, out-of-the-ordinary way to relieve stress!
Before getting into the benefits that can be reaped from acupuncture sessions, it is helpful to have a bit of an understanding of what it is. This treatment, which can be used for a variety of medical conditions — from skin rashes to migraines to fertility issues — is based on Qi, or the energy flowing through our body systems. By poking very fine needles just under the surface of the skin (so fine they are the diameter of a strand of hair!), the system equilibrium can be restored. Scientists and acupuncturists are not exactly sure why or how this works, but I have heard that allowing oxygen into the system helps with the flow of Qi!
Before the ‘woo woo’ sceptics stop reading, there have been a variety of scientific studies showing the benefits of acupuncture (although more research is definitely needed). For example, one study found that acupuncture reduced general anxiety for patients who did not respond to traditional treatments.
If you are even still sceptical, the acupuncture sessions last roughly an hour, and can be a lovely space to de-stress with the low lights and soft music! But make sure you visit a licensed acupuncturist who uses sterile needles.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is basically a fancy word for something we are starting to see and hear about everywhere — essential oils. These oils can be found in loads of our daily products, especially if you are like me — an avid candle user. But in its most basic form, aromatherapy consists of inhaling the scent of natural oil products to achieve a desired outcome, such as reduced stress or better concentration.
Like acupuncture, the research on aromatherapy is spotty. However, a few studies do show that essential oils may be able to alter our brain waves, decrease our cortisol (stress hormone) levels, and improve overall well-being!
Essential oils are great because they are a quick and accessible option for reducing stress. It can be as simple as lighting a nice candle or using a diffuser to release the scents into the air during a self-care evening with a glass of rosé!
Some essential oils to try out for beginners looking for some stress relief are: jasmine, bergamot, lavender, rose, valerian, frankincense, and chamomile! These can be found at Amazon, Boots, Holland & Barrett, and more!
Ecotherapy
Getting into nature has been the ultimate saviour for many this past year. And while we may not exactly realise why we are so drawn to the lovely park walks, it really does help us feel better! Psychologists are starting to take more of an interest in what is called ‘Ecotherapy’ and why nature helps us feel so good!
Ecotherapy (from a psychotherapy point of view) is a formal type of therapy — just like CBT (cognitive-behavioural therapy).
Ecotherapy does not have to be formal and complicated if that’s not what you’re looking for! Just spending time in nature during your daily walk can be a huge stress reliever! But there are also tons of other ways to reap some of the benefits of ecotherapy. For example, you could start gardening, do daily meditations or yoga flows outside (preferably with a view of trees!), go for runs on a nearby trail rather than staying on the treadmill, stargazing, or even get involved in conservation work! Try to bring some mindfulness into whatever activity you choose — allow yourself to be present and open to feelings and emotions that want to come up!
Check out our article with Christian Ferragamo, our in-house Occupational Psychologist and Advisor to WellBe, he talks all about the benefits of nature.
Music as Therapy
This one you may already be doing regularly without even knowing it! Music is a staple in most of our lives, and we all know that feeling of turning up the Taylor Swift or Lewis Capaldi when in need of a good cry.
But music can also be a formal form of therapy — check out the British Association for Music Therapy’s website to learn more about that here. This can be really helpful for those struggling with stress and anxiety by modulating behaviours, emotions, communication abilities, and even memory processes!
However, music can be therapeutic on a smaller scale as well! If you are keen on trying to use music as stress relief, try to take a moment to really listen. Listen not only to the lyrics, but also the instrumental notes, and make sure to acknowledge how it makes you feel. Or if you need to release some pent-up energy or shake the day out — blast some high energy tunes and have a dance! Music can be a great tool — use it however it works for you.
Written by Sydni Weissgold
WellBe is spearheading the way to a brighter future for corporate wellness. Our innovative portal is scientifically designed and tailored to each individual employee to improve their wellbeing. We specialise in a range of services from coaching and therapists, to meditation and reading materials. Our aim is to reduce workplace stress that costs UK businesses £42 billion per year. Get in touch with us by visiting our site wellbe.global for more information.
