Easy Coping Skills You Can Try Anywhere

When we feel stressed, overwhelmed or at the end of our rope, it’s important for us to take a moment to slow down. The nag of never ending to-do lists can make us feel like there’s no time to pause, but giving your mind and body time to settle will actually help you! Our bodies were not made to run on stress 100% of the time, so let’s explore some options to bring the stress level down a few notches. 

Easy coping skills that you can try anywhere.

Everybody is different and we all respond to stress and coping skills in our own ways, so if one doesn’t feel right for you, just move on to the next one! Give them a shot and see what works for you. 

Deep Breathing 

Let’s take a moment to pause right now and pay attention to your breath. Are we taking long, extended breaths or short and shallow? 

Notice how you feel after five deep breaths: 

Breathe in through your nose, hold it for a few seconds, exhale through your mouth. Aim for your exhale to be slightly longer than the inhale. 

For example, breathe in to the count of four, hold for four, exhale for six. 

Listen to Music 

Whether it’s relaxing instrumental tracks or your favorite Taylor Swift playlist, music can act as a distraction from stress and lift our mood. 

Guided Meditation 

You can browse an enormous variety of free guided meditations online. Give yourself five quiet moments to relax and close your eyes, or keep your eyes open and just focus on your breath while listening. 

Note: Please do not listen to guided meditations when driving! 

Get Up and Move 

Sometimes all we need is to stretch and walk around! Physical movement helps the body release tension and emotions. Bonus points if you can go outside to move. 

Talk it Out 

Share your stress with someone you trust. Venting can help you move to the action stage and it always feels good to be supported by the people we care about. 

Still stressed? 

Sometimes we have to practice a coping skill before noticing the most benefits. If you feel like you’ve tried these coping skills (and maybe others) but are still feeling overwhelmed, schedule your free 15 minute consultation to get started on therapy in Dublin, CA. I would love to go over some of the ways I can help you gain coping skills.