Stressful days are often far too common. Isn’t it simply amazing how we can let one mishap or miscommunication take hold of our entire day and rain down the stress-parade? Not only is being stressed not fun…it’s not healthy either. Why have that constant worry and anxiety when you can find simple ways to relax after a stressful day? And if you are looking for a few stress management activities to help you do just that, you’ve come to the right place!

Here are 5 super simple ways to relax after a stressful day!

5 Fantastic Stress Management Activities You Can’t Miss!

1. Play with your pet.

Seriously, is there anything more relaxing than snuggling up with your favorite ball of fur? And not only do they love to be cuddled, they love to give snuggles back as well. Pets can be an excellent way to de-stress after a long day and make for awesome listening companions as well. Why not vent and get in some quality time snuggles with your four-legged friend? You’ll be amazed at how quickly you start to feel less stressed! Love is free and you have your pet to give you just that. So why not take advantage of that?

2. One word: Netflix.

I have said this before but will say it again. Sometimes, just sitting down on the couch and zoning in on your favorite TV show is all that it takes. Need to catch up on a few seasons of Gossip Girl? You’re in luck because Netflix can help you do just that. In my experience working as a Netflix Ambassador for 4 years, I can vouch that it works! The best part about watching a little TV is that it helps to distract your mind from the stresses of the world and allows you time to adjust and relax. If not Netflix, other streaming services will do just fine-like Crave (for Canadians), Amazon Prime Video, HBO Now, Youtube TV etc.

3. Write it out.

If words are taking up space in your mind and you need to get them out to help you relax, write them down. Invest in a bullet journal, Gratitude Journal or just a plain jane notebook and write down those thoughts, feelings, and emotions. The sooner that you can find a positive way to express yourself and your thoughts, the better that you will feel!

4. Call up your mom.

As an adult, you’ve probably slowly come to the conclusion that a lot of the advice that your mom gave you growing up wasn’t as useless and crazy as you thought it was. And the great thing about having an awesome mom that you can talk to about all things life. They listen without interruption, and without judgment. Okay, this is not my experience with my own Mom, as I was Motherless growing up. But it is safe to say this is the general consensus.

When you are feeling overly stressed, picking up the phone and calling mom is one of the easiest and most simple ways to relax. There’s just something about knowing that your mom has your back that makes it a truly awesome way to unwind.

5. Quiet Dinner/Take Out

Have a nice quiet dinner alone at your favorite restaurant or do Skip The Dishes (get $7 off when you order through that link!) like I do. While having company while you dine is great, sometimes it’s just as nice to eat alone. You get to order what you want, take as much time as you need, and not be “forced” to carry on a conversation that is not truly of interest to you. And while that may sound a bit harsh, it’s also got a bit of truth to it as well. When you are already feeling stressed out, the last thing that you’re wanting to do is focus on a conversation over dinner with someone. The thought of eating a bit of delicious food, in silence sounds like a super relaxing way to help deal with that stress.

Don’t let stress break you down. And trust me, it can! Get ahead of it by recognizing it and understanding that you need to do something for you to try to alleviate a bit of those stressful emotions that you are feeling. The sooner that you can take the time to implement these tips for stress relief, it could get better. Do something that you love and want to do and you will feel better and more relaxed. And who knows, by experimenting with a few of the stress management activities above, you may find out that one of them is the perfect way to help you de-stress each and every time!