The real-life tested items that will calm your mind and soothe your body
How are your stress levels lately? Silly question, I know. According to the American Psychological Association, the COVID-19 pandemic has “altered every aspect of American life, from health and work to education and exercise.” And a recent Gallup poll found that U.S. workers are among the most stressed in the world. Add to that economic uncertainty and a looming war, and you've got a recipe for anxiety. Sure, you can combat your stress by hitting the gym. Or drown your sorrows with a cocktail. But the pandemic put me off both of those acticities. So I started looking for more at-home, on-my-own alternatives. Here's where my research led me. And if they can help me, they can no doubt help you ease your own stress too.
When my mind is racing, I tend to get fidgety hands. I pull on my earlobe, tap my pen against my desk (annoying anyone around me) or scratch the back of my scalp. Then someone recommended these buildable magnets to occupy my manual fixation. Over 500 perfectly crafted miniature magnets provide endless options for building and mashing. Plus, as a desk toy, the nickel-plated balls are pretty handsome.
$34.95 by Speks
If you're concerned about the amount of Excedrin you're pounding due to tension headaches, consider an herbal alternative. Hilma's clinically proven blend of natural drug-free ingredients provide relief when you need it, but even more importantly works in the long term. The formula includes powerful plants and minerals that also help to strengthen your system over time so you experience less tension in the long term.
$17 by Hilma
I originally thought that mechanical foot massagers were something you regretted buying from SkyMall. This one is equipped with three different massage modes (each with three different intensities), which use a combination of rolling foot massage and compression for varying sensations.
$139.99 / $129.99 by Renpho
By this point, you've probably tried CBD in some capacity. But these gummies are specifically formulated to relax you out when you're feeling dread, anxiety or stress (hence, the name). The main ingredients are 100% industrial hemp oil, vitamin B-12 and vitamin D-3 (the same vitamin your body produces when exposed to the sun). Chew two of these when you feel your stress levels rising and let a wave of chill wash over you.
$29 by Sunday Scaries
Weighted blankets have been gaining popularity because they're said to relieve anxiety and improve sleep quality—both of which come in handy when you're feeling stressed. Casper has introduced a simple navy blanket that comes in three different weights to suit your comfort level. Just pulling it over your body feels a bit like a full-body hug. And if you want to power nap to escape a tough day, this blanket lulls you to sleep quickly.
$169 / $84.50 by Casper
The Valet. team is very pro bath. Toss a few handfuls of Epsom salt in as your water is filling and you're in business. The mineral salt has long been recommended to relieve sore, tense muscles but this goes one better with soothing eucalyptus and mint oil. It's hard not to relax when soaking in warm water and there's something about the steam surrounding me that results in deeper, more meditative breaths. Add to that the benefits of aromatherapy, and the stress just melts away.
$4.89 by Dr. Teal's
Over time, continued strain on your body from stress may lead to serious health problems, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and other illnesses.
(Source: NIH)
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