Do you ever feel that sometimes self-care even seems like a lot of work? You are exhausted, your mind is cooked, and the thought of getting off the couch is almost a crime. We understand.

Stress does not always require a significant change. At times, the quickest solution to change your mood is right at your fingertips. For instance, your phone, your favorite hoodie, and, well, your couch. You can be tired of Zoom calls, group chats, or simply being, but these five low-effort stress relievers are what your overstimulated brain deserves.

Stress Reliever #1: Play a Quick, Low-Stakes Game

Sometimes when you are stressed and do not want to overthink, you can play a simple game on your mobile phone. It provides your mind with something light to think about for a few minutes. The best part? These games do not require skills or strategy. In them, you are only tapping, spinning or matching, and that little distraction can allow you to relax. In this regard, free slot games are a good way to go in case you need something fast and entertaining. It doesn’t cost you anything, and you don’t have to win anything. It’s just a couple of spins to have fun and forget about the thing that bothers you.

Stress Reliever #2: Rewatch a Comfort Show

There’s nothing like watching a show you’ve already seen to take a break. You are familiar with the jokes, the story, and the ending, so there’s nothing new, but comfort. Watching something familiar will make you feel relaxed and secure. It does not demand your full attention, and you are already sure that it would make you feel better. So, choose something that makes you laugh or feel good, perhaps Friends, The Office or a cartoon you enjoyed as a child. 

Stress Reliever #3: Write Down What’s on Your Mind

When your brain is full, start writing something in your phone or on a piece of paper. It does not need to appear good or to be logical. Simply put it out. Once you get your thoughts out on paper, they will not feel so heavy. With this, you cease to overthink and begin seeing things more clearly. So, go to your notes app and write anything that comes to your mind for 5 minutes. It might be a list, a rant, or random thoughts. 

Stress Reliever #4: Listen to Background Sounds

When your room is too silent or your thoughts are too loud, play some soothing sounds in the background, such as soft music, rain, or cafe sounds. These sounds can help you relax, and you don’t have to concentrate. They help create a relaxing atmosphere, particularly when your mind refuses to calm down. Go to YouTube or Spotify and search for lo-fi beats or rain sounds. Put them on low volume as you lie on the couch or scroll through your phone.

Stress Reliever #5: Take a Few Deep Breaths

When it all seems to be too much, the only thing that you can do is to sit down and take a deep breath or two. At first it might appear of no use, yet it does help. It relaxes your body by reducing your heart rate and gives you a sense of control. How to do it? 

• Inhale deeply with your nose (4 seconds)
• Take a little breath (4 seconds)
• Exhale slowly with your mouth (6 seconds)
• Repeat for a few minutes

Conclusion 

You don’t need to have a fancy routine or tools to declutter your mind. You can simply spend a couple of minutes on your couch and have the right distraction. It could be spinning a couple of free slot games, rewatching your favourite show, or simply taking a deep breath, but little things can go a long way. So, the next time stress slips in, attempt one of these simple concepts.