Coping With Stress

Overview

How you cope with stress can impact how stress affects you. Choosing healthy, positive ways to cope doesn't have to be a challenge. Let your senses do the work. Take a look at the ideas below. How many might you try?

See: Looking for beauty in what's around you.

  • Step outside. Focus on the first tree, plant, or shrub you see.
  • Visit a market, and look at the plants or flowers on display.
  • Create a space in your home that gives you joy.
  • Light a candle, and concentrate on the flame.
  • Watch the stars at night.

Hear: Listening for calming sounds.

  • Listen to music that calms or motivates you.
  • Sing, or play an instrument.
  • Find an inspiring podcast or audiobook.
  • Share your story with someone you care about.
  • Listen to sounds from a relaxation app.

Feel: Finding the soothing touch.

  • Wrap yourself in a soft blanket.
  • Change into cozy clothes.
  • Ask for or give a hug to a safe person.
  • Pet a dog or cat.
  • Take a warm bath or shower.

Taste: Nourishing body and soul.

  • Make yourself a non-alcoholic drink (like tea, hot chocolate, sparkling water, or kombucha).
  • Treat yourself to some fruit or a small dessert.
  • Do something special to your food or drink. (Add nuts or fruit to a salad, for example.)
  • Make yourself an easy but nourishing meal.

Smell: Finding comfort in scent.

  • Use your favorite lotion, perfume, or cologne.
  • Light a scented candle, or try essential oils.
  • Walk into a bakery and inhale the scent of fresh bread. Or bake your own.
  • Boil cinnamon, orange peels, and cloves

How many new things did you find to try?

Are there others you might try? Write them here.

Credits

Current as of: June 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.