Stress can sneak up on you—during a long workday, while juggling errands, or even just sitting still with your thoughts. And when it does, everything feels heavier, harder, and a little out of control.
The good news? You don’t need a vacation or a full-on spa day to feel better. These 7 simple stress relievers are quick, easy, and actually work. They’re easy to fit into your day—simple enough to do anywhere, and all it takes is a few minutes.
1. Take a Deep Breath: Reset in Just 60 Seconds
Feeling overwhelmed? Start with your breath. When you’re stressed, you tend to breathe fast and shallow without even noticing. That can make everything feel worse.
Try this:
- Inhale slowly through your nose for 3 seconds
- Hold your breath for a second
- Exhale gently through your mouth
Repeat a few times. You’ll start to feel your heart rate slow down and your mind clear.
Want to try something deeper? Do the 4-7-8 method: breathe in for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale for 8. It’s a powerful way to signal your body that you’re safe and can relax.
2. Watch Cute Animal Videos: Boost Your Mood Instantly
Yes, watching a baby goat jump in pajamas really can help you feel better. Research from the University of Leeds found that viewing images and videos of cute animals can reduce stress levels by up to 50%.
This is because watching these cute creatures releases endorphins and decreases cortisol, the stress hormone. If you need a break, search for “funniest dog clips” or “cutest baby animals.” It’s not a waste of time—it’s self-care in action.
3. Listen to Music: Let Sound Soothe Your Soul
Music works like a reset button for your emotions. It can calm racing thoughts, uplift a tired mood, or simply help you feel more grounded.
When you listen to music that resonates with you, your brain releases dopamine—a feel-good chemical that naturally lowers stress. According to Harmony & Healing, music not only helps reduce anxiety and blood pressure, but it can also promote better sleep and emotional healing. Whether it’s classical, jazz, nature sounds, or your favorite playlist, the key is finding what brings you peace.
Pop in your earbuds, hit play, and give yourself a moment to simply feel the music.
4. Give or Get a Hug: The Simple Power of Touch
A hug can do more than you think. When you hug someone—or even hug a pet or yourself—your body releases oxytocin, the “calm and connect” hormone. This hormone helps reduce stress and anxiety, promoting feelings of safety and well-being.
It only takes about 20 seconds of hugging to feel a difference. If you’re on your own, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket or gently hold your arms. That physical connection still tells your brain, “You’re safe.” For more on the power of hugs, see this MedicineNet article.
5. Laugh a Little: Laughter Really Is Medicine
Laughter doesn’t just feel good—it helps your body relax. It eases tension, boosts mood, and fills your lungs with fresh air. According to the Mayo Clinic, laughter stimulates circulation and promotes muscle relaxation, both of which reduce physical symptoms of stress. It also increases your oxygen intake and boosts the release of endorphins, which help you feel better naturally, as noted by this article on HelpGuide.org.
Watch a short comedy video, scroll through funny memes, or remember something silly that made you laugh before. Even if you have to fake a laugh at first, it often turns real—and your body still benefits.
6. Do Something Creative: Let Your Mind Focus on Fun
Stress keeps your brain in overdrive. But when you create something—even something simple—you give your mind a new, calmer place to focus.
Draw, doodle, write, bake, paint, knit, or rearrange a shelf. Don’t worry about the outcome. The point is to enjoy the process, not to be perfect.
Looking to Relieve Some Stress Artfully?
366 Days of Happy Things to Draw Sketchbook
A year of joyful prompts to inspire creativity and relieve stress daily.
7. Move Your Body: Shake Off the Stress
You don’t need a full workout—just a little movement goes a long way. Stretch your arms, walk around the block, or dance to your favorite song.
Moving your body helps release endorphins, natural chemicals your body makes that help you feel happier and less stressed. If you can go outside, even better—sunlight and fresh air add an extra mood boost.
Even a few minutes of motion can shift your mindset.
Final Thought: Small Actions, Big Results
Stress happens to all of us. But it doesn’t have to take over your day.
These 7 quick tips are easy to try, simple to remember, and powerful enough to help you feel better fast. The next time you feel stress creeping in, pick one—breathe, laugh, move, or just watch something joyful.
You’ve got this! And as always, don’t forget to S.U.N (Stay Uplifted Naturally)!
Disclaimer
Welcome to S.U.N! Just a quick note: we’re here to share helpful information, but we’re not a replacement for medical, legal, or other professional advice. Our content is meant to support you, not take the place of medical or mental health treatment. If you think you might have a condition, please see a professional. Stay well!