Change and uncertainty are adding stress to in our everyday lives. Whether your new normal is working from home or you’re still leaving home every day, life is dramatically different. Maybe your way of coping is to plop down on the couch and get lost in hours of television. It may seem relaxing. Mindless, even. That is, until you can’t sleep that night. Or maybe you get a headache.

Wasn’t sitting on the couch relaxing? Not really. A recent study shared in Quartz announced that screen time actually makes us unhappy and stressed.

The study followed teenagers and determined that teens who spent more time with friends, exercising, playing sports, reading, or even doing homework, were happier than their counterparts who spent time on the internet, playing computer games, texting, watching TV, or using social media.

So, what can we do to unwind, relax, and de-stress? If you’re running short on ideas, we’ve put a list you can test for yourself. 

1. READ
Whether it’s fiction or a book on how to boost your career, reading is a great way to take your mind off stressors and to focus on something new and different.

2. LISTEN TO A PODCAST
Yes—it requires technology but after you click play, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy.



3. CALL A FRIEND
Catch up with your best friend or someone you haven’t talked to in a long time. The conversation could take you places you never imagined.



4. MEET UP IN PERSON
A safe, social-distanced meet-up can help break the monotony. Get together at an outdoor café, sit on a front porch or just take a walk. Just make sure to put your phone away and focus on the great company.

5. WRITE
Blog…journal…simply put your thoughts in writing. It doesn’t have to be perfect or something you’ll ever share, but putting pen to paper is a great outlet and can leave you feeling refreshed.

6. COOK
Or bake. Bust out that recipe you’ve always wanted to try. Even if you’re a party of one, you can make a special treat to reward yourself.

7.  MEDITATE
Set aside 15 to 30 minutes right after you walk in the door or before bed to clear your mind. It doesn’t take long to see results.



8. CLEAN
This one may sound awful, but a clean and tidy environment will help you relax because you won’t see the things that need to be done. Plus, it’ll free up your weekends.



9. EXERCISE OR WALK
Not only will it make you healthier, but it gets you out and about. Listen to some music or invite a friend.



10. CREATE SOMETHING
Draw, knit, paint, color, or craft. Doing something creative can help you reduce stress and feel good about making something uniquely yours.