When Bath and Body Works Released their Aromatherapy Stress Relief line back in 2017, I immediately bought the lotion and body wash. It has been one of my favorite products to use since it came out and I recommend it to anyone that practices self care or wants to create a routine.
Why do we need stress relief products though? According to the American Psychology Association: “Despite several months of acclimating to a new reality and societal upheaval spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans are struggling to cope with the disruptions it has caused. Nearly 8 in 10 adults (78%) say the coronavirus pandemic is a significant source of stress in their life. And, 2 in 3 adults say they have experienced increased stress over the course of the pandemic.” The article goes on to explain that the amount of stress can impact the younger generations for years. Hopefully, some of these products can relieve at least some stress for those who need it.
Weighted Blanket
If this is not on your holiday shopping list, it definitely should be. A weighted blanket has benefits ranging from calming the nervous system to easing stress and anxiety. This is something that can be added to your nighttime routine if you are not comfortable sleeping with it on the entire night. You can use the weighted blanket while reading before bed or meditating. You can find a full/queen size weighted blanket on Amazon here.
Tea
BetterHelp reported: “Teas including black, green, oolong, white, purple, and pu-erh can all help fight symptoms of anxiety and stress. Since tea also contains caffeine, the combination of the caffeine and l-theanine is said to produce clarity and focus that helps soothe the mind and increase mental performance.” Tea is extremely beneficial for your overall physical and mental health. Drinking tea while doing another stress relief activity such as reading or coloring is a great way to practice self care. Visit your local drug store, grocery store, or local health store to purchase organic teas.
Interested in how stress impacts college students? Learn more in our article about college student stress facts.
A Journal
Interactive or blank journals are a good way to keep track of your stress levels, to write about your feelings and to practice gratitude. You can find a previous article on interactive journals here. Pair your journal with your favorite pens or pencils to provide nostalgia from when you were in school rather than journaling on your phone.
Fidget Toys
Something that you can keep in your desk, car, purse, or pocket are fidget toys. Fidget toys include pop its, spinners, bands, cubes, marble mazes, stress balls, and more. The Conversation, a scholastic journal reported: “Another common reason for fidgeting that we saw among adults in our online study is that some fidget objects – such as a favorite smooth stone – can be used to calm them down and achieve a more relaxed, contemplative or even mindful state.” You can buy a pack of fidget toys here off of Amazon.
Do What Makes You Feel Good
When it comes to relieving your stress, it is important to do what makes you feel good. Do what brings you joy and is not destructive to your health. Take the time to practice self care, to bring you joy and gratitude and calmness.
