Stress relief suggestions

You’re looking for ‘healthy escapism’

Morning - Exercise
Midday - Walk
Night - Fire, pet/walk dog, melatonin, long form comedy shows

Alcohol/Marijuana - I don’t use; creates too many issues and is expensive
 
The last year has been pretty stressful. A lot more trouble turning the brain off, a lot more trouble sleeping, a lot more trouble just unplugging.

A few things I’ve figured out for myself:

I have to unplug from the news, social media, and the constant bombardment of electronic stimulus. It’s a little shocking how much that improves my mood.

Working with my hands on things that allow me to focus on something external really calms the mind. Pottery, fleshing hides, cooking, hand sewing something all help when I can’t turn off the brain.

When I’m stressed, booze might take the edge off but makes sleeping worse.

I’ve really struggled with sleep for quite a while. I just can’t get my brain to shut up. Reading something totally unrelated to anything going on in my life can help keep my brain from mulling over the things that are keeping me up. And an actual book- not a screen.

The Calm app has actually been super helpful. When nothing else is working, some of the guided sleep meditations that do some breath work or progressive relaxation can usually put me right to sleep.
Yes, working in my woodshop is like traveling to another country. I don’t look for peace there, it finds me. Also sewing using my own patterns, and beading a fine necklace when the beads find their places. Whatever your other is, go there.

Most of all books. Words on a page, written by someone who might be a stranger but invites you in anyway.
 

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