learn to combat stress with this one thing

Pouring yourself into a certain activity can actually put your mind more at ease.

I saw this first hand during my time in quarantine.

I was at home, feeling helpless to the events outside of the walls I was confined to. I wanted to protest for BLM, use my voice and take action, but the rising cases of COVID-19 in my city were not making that very easy. I was watching the people I love scared and anxious. I too, was deeply anxious, unsure of what was going to happen next. I remember for about a week all I could do was sign petitions, spread the beliefs I had to my family and friends, and wait.

I’m using this example as stress but pouring yourself into an activity can work for anything whether it be-stressing for an upcoming event, college interview, first date, etc.

Anyways, back to my situation…I felt strongly about supporting the BLM movement that I used this energy towards art. If you know me, you must also know I am no artist. While I think art is fun, I am never serious with any of my projects. This, however, was different. Over the course of a month I religiously worked on a social activist poster conveying my feelings, thoughts, and beliefs on poster paper. I sketched, colored, and filled in the template my mind was processing. Something beautiful came of it.

And so after weeks of feeling helpless I dedicated my time to something that would alleviate all of this built up stress and anxiety within me.

So what did I learn from all of this? Well-I have seen firsthand that combatting stress through an activity actually works!

So, if you are feeling down, search for a hobby to lift yourself up.

Here are some suggestions:

-Photography (nature/modeling in your backyard is a fantastic way to start!)

-Biking (go out and explore-plus it is a fun way to exercise)

-Painting/Poster Making

-Learn how to do something (bake, play the piano, gardening, blogging)

–Lastly, have fun with what you do. If the activity is meant to be, it won’t be something you are forced to do, but rather it will gravitate into your daily schedule naturally.

Finally, stress is a very complex subject to talk about and I hope I will get to some more ways to combat stress in other situations in the future 🙂

My advice to you is to find that small project, activity, hobby, etc. and diligently put effort into it. The results will amaze you.

Peace & Good Vibes,

Maya ❤