Creative Stress Relief For All: Ways to kick back without being artsy

Now that the semester is in full swing and work is piling up, it’s easy to feel like there are no good ways to relieve stress, especially if you’re not particularly artsy.  Some of the most commonly recommended forms of stress relief have to do with drawing, painting, singing, writing, and dancing, but there are plenty of other creative ways to decompress and relax that don’t require a high level of skill in those areas.

Though there are many mental health benefits to keeping a journal, like being able to get all of your thoughts and feelings out safely onto paper, it’s not for everyone.  Sometimes it’s hard to write your feelings down in your own words. Sometimes other people’s words work just as well. Keeping a song lyric journal allows you the freedom to not have to worry about what you’re going to write, and it gives you an opportunity to listen to and reflect on music that you really like.  I’ve been keeping a song lyric journal for a little while now, and it’s interesting to look back and see what songs I was drawn to at different times. There are even times when writing down lyrics makes me want to write more, so I add little notes explaining why I like a certain song or certain phrase, what it reminds me of, and how I feel listening to it.

Similarly, creating a new playlist can also help settle your nerves.  It’s always nice finding that perfect arrangement of songs that go together and encompass your current mood, bring a fond memory, or make you smile!

Spending time with friends is great for relieving stress when you all need a break.  Taking a walk together and taking pictures of anything interesting you see along the way helps you get fresh air and exercise to boost your mood as well as memories you can look back on.  If walking is not your speed, try baking something together in the KaGe. You can catch up with friends and enjoy some freshly made sweet treats. After all, “stressed” spelled backwards is “desserts”!

There are plenty of easy and fun ways to relieve stress without being a writer, singer, dancer, or artist, and these ideas only scratch the surface.  So go take some time to relax and be creative!