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.