ways to relieve stress

5 Natural Ways to Relieve Stress

Ads are constantly selling us on ways to relieve stress. However, many people simply want to make money rather than cure the problem. The truth is, we already have everything we need to relieve stress. We just need to take advantage of the things that were naturally created to do it.

If you are looking for ways to relieve stress, look no further than right outside your own window. Here are 5 things we can do to help us relax, unwind, and release our stress.

1. Breathe.

Get away from the things that are causing your stress and breathe with purpose in solitude. I was inspired by my pastor’s advice. He said, “Breathe out the junk and then breathe in the majesty.” It may take some time to breathe out the “junk” that is causing our angst, but it’s important to let it all go. Consider it and remove it. When you are ready, breathe in the majesty of creation and renew your soul.

2. Take a tech-free walk.

Leave all technology at home and start walking. Whether you live in the country, a suburban neighborhood, or urban area, there is so much to take in when we look through the right lenses. Observe your surroundings as you literally walk away from your stress. Find the contrasts and the beauty that we normally block out. In the movie Forrest Gump, what does he do when he finally gets overwhelmed? He runs and doesn’t stop until he’s healed. That’s an extreme example, but the same idea.

3. Get in the dirt.

These days it seems like most parents look at the ground—the dirt—and see bacteria and danger. There’s some truth in that, I suppose, but it’s far outweighed by the tremendous healing powers of the earth. You might choose to plant a garden, throw a ball around with your son, or roll around playing with your daughter. Just get yourself in that dirt.

4. Hunt for photos.

Many years ago, there was a television show based in Alaska called Northern Lights. One of the characters was a crusty old mountain man who was a master hunter. Over time, he had become weary with killing so many animals. So he replaced his gun with a camera. He took great joy in hunting the same way he had always done, but the “kill shot” was a click of his camera. That character has stuck with me and I’ve emulated it in my own way. I find the beauty, the quirky, the essence in my life, and I capture it with my camera. It’s a tremendous way to see and find purpose.

The most natural way to relieve stress? Simply pray.

5. Pray.

The most natural way to relieve stress? Simply pray. Get on your knees, humble your heart, and talk to God. If you don’t know what to say, just pray the Lord’s Prayer. It covers everything. Prayer is our direct connection to the Creator of everything.

Sound Off: Can you think of some other natural ways to relieve stress?

Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What do you do when you are stressed?”