5 Easy and Effective Ways to Relieve Stress Naturally
Stress Awareness Month may be in April, but let’s be honest: stress doesn’t wait for a designated time to show up. Whether you’re juggling work, caregiving, changing hormones, or just a too-long to-do list, stress has a way of sneaking into your day.
As a naturopathic doctor, I’m always looking for simple, sustainable tools that help calm the nervous system. These five activities are quick, evidence-based, and can be done without any special equipment or big time commitments.
Each one supports your body’s natural ability to shift out of stress and into a state of calm, connection, and clarity.
5 Stress Busting Activities to Brighten Your Day
Laugh (Yes, Really)
Laughter isn’t just feel-good fluff. It helps reduce cortisol, your main stress hormone. It also boosts circulation and increases endorphins, which are your body’s natural mood boosters. Even anticipating a funny video or recalling a favorite joke can positively affect your physiology.
Spend Time with Animals
There’s a reason therapy animals are used in hospitals and care settings. Petting, walking, or cuddling with a furry friend can lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and help you feel more grounded.
Even if you don’t have a pet of your own, a visit to a friend’s home, a local shelter, or even watching animal videos can offer a quick nervous system shift.
Bonus: Walking your dog counts as movement and time in nature, which are two powerful stress relievers.
Step Outside for Some “Vitamin Nature”
Spending time in green spaces has been shown to reduce stress, support focus, and improve immune function. You don’t need to go on a long hike. A few deep breaths on your porch or a short walk around the block can make a difference.
Nature gives your body and brain a break from sensory overload. Even indoor plants or looking at photos of natural scenes can help if getting outside isn't an option.
Give (or Get) a Hug
Physical touch increases oxytocin, which is often called the “bonding hormone.” It also lowers heart rate and blood pressure, helping the body feel safe.
If a hug isn’t accessible, placing a hand on your chest or giving yourself a gentle squeeze can still provide calming input. The goal is to remind your body that you’re not alone and that you’re safe in this moment.
Connection is one of the most underused forms of stress relief.
Try Coloring Again
Remember the joy of coloring as a child? Adult coloring books offer a focused, meditative activity that can quiet mental chatter and help you reset.
Coloring supports mindfulness, lowers anxiety, and gives your brain a chance to rest from decision-making and overthinking.
The point isn’t to be perfect. It’s to give your mind something gentle and grounding to focus on.
What’s One Small Thing You Can Try Today?
You don’t have to overhaul your life to start feeling better. A few minutes of nervous system support can ripple through your mood, energy, and focus for the rest of the day.
If you’re in a season that feels heavy or chaotic, think of these activities as tiny anchors. They are simple ways to come back to yourself, even briefly.