Anxiety affects the largest number of people out of all of the mental disorders across the globe. Anxiety affects many humans’ lives every day and can even have an effect on everyday tasks and how they are carried out.  While the majority of the world is under quarantine and uncertain about the weeks to follow with the COVID-19 outbreak on the rise, many people have fallen victim to stress and anxiety. It is very easy to get caught up with life and take steps necessary to avoid the virus, but a lot of people have sacrificed their mental health in pursuit of these goals. There are many methods to destressing and most of them are simple and can be done at home on quarantine. Below are five ways to destress in the safety of your own home. 

The first and possibly easiest way to relieve stress and anxiety is writing down either what you’re stressed about or what you’re grateful for. Gratitude is helpful in stress relief and anxiety because you are focusing on positivity. 

Next, yoga has been found to be extremely useful in stress relief. There are many YouTube channels that feature home yoga routines since going to a yoga studio isn’t an option. Yoga With Adriene, Yoga By Candace, The Yoga Room and Faith Hunter are a few popular yoga YouTube channels. 

Another simple technique is talking with family and friends or spending time with a pet. Although we are practicing social distancing and can not get together with others physically, a simple phone call could give you the support you need to get through a stressful time. Spending time with pets can also relieve stress and give you a sense of purpose and provide companionship. 

Creating artwork has also been proven to relieve stress. Tapping into your creative side by drawing and painting can help decline anxiety levels. For people who aren’t as skilled, coloring can also be a great stress reliever and there are many adult coloring pages that you can print online.

Positive self-talk can also help create a more productive and healthy outlook on life. Optimism can help reduce stress. Rather than telling yourself, “I can’t do this” you might try saying, “I am going to try my best to do this.” You will further stress yourself out if you have the idea in your head that you can’t do something before you even attempt it. 

The stress and anxiety associated with a global pandemic can sometimes feel like a lot but there are many simple ways to take control and reduce the amount of pressure you feel. These tips for stress relief all involve things you can participate in at home, under self-quarantine while still staying safe from the virus.