There’s no way around it, stress levels have been at an all-time high for well over a year now. Even the most graceful and composed among us have struggled as challenges have been thrown at us in myriad unimaginable ways. So you can imagine how I, a historically un-graceful and un-composed woman, have been coping. (Spoiler alert: not well!) This is why I’m on a mission to find the very best stress relief products around.
As much as I enjoy having the temperament of a terrified and eternally-shivering chihuahua, it’s time for a much-needed respite. It serves no one, much less ourselves, if we are in a perpetual state of tension. And since everyone has a different set of circumstances with which they are coping, we went ahead and rounded up an array of stress relief goodies for all kinds of situations, budgets, and needs.
It can feel self-indulgent to take time out to analyze our needs, but it’s important not just for general well-being, but also for mental and physical health. Stress can take an incredible toll that only compounds over time, which is why even the tiniest of steps to mitigate high-stress levels can have a big impact. If you only have a few moments to do a quick meditation, we’ve got you covered. If you’re running around the house and don’t have time to sit, you can still indulge in a bit of aromatherapy to soothe the senses.
Read on for the 14 best stress relief products around:
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Body Care
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Not only does dry brushing slough away dead cells, leaving your skin radiant and smooth, but it boosts circulation as well, sending feel-good endorphins to your brain.
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This particular kind of me-time is a well-known stress reducer. This discreet and chic-looking vibe also happens to be waterproof, which is incredibly convenient if your morning shower is the only time of day you have a modicum of privacy.
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Beat those tense, sore muscles into submission with this powerful Theragun. It’s definitely an investment, but well worth the tension relief.
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Ideally, someone is on hand for a relaxing and stress-busting massage, but just in case you’re on your own, this cutie pulls double duty as a bath oil. Take some time to light a candle and melt into a warm, soothing bath with this fragrant, calming oil.
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Roll that stress out of your body with this foam roller. It loosens tight muscles, soothes soreness, stimulates the senses, and is a great way to take a moment to care for yourself.
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Take some time out of your day to pamper your skin with this ultra-hydrating face mask. Self-care can be a great de-stressor, which is so important when dealing with life’s many challenges.
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Mental Health
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Even if you only have a few minutes a day, setting time to meditate can be a wonderful way to ease your mind. If your stress and anxiety keep you up at night, you’ll want to check out the sleepcasts—I rarely fall asleep without listening to an episode!
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The Happify program gives you tools and techniques to make positive changes and instill a sense of calm and well-being. This app was developed by scientists and experts who study evidence-based interventions in the fields of positive psychology, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Prices vary depending on the program, and it’s definitely worth checking out.
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Keep your hands busy and your mind calm with a bit of simple therapy dough. It’s based on clay used by art therapists and is infused with essential oils for stress relief.
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A longtime devotee of the weighted blanket, I like to refer to mine as a “swaddle for anxious spinsters.” I’ve never slept better! It turns out that cuddling up under evenly distributed weight brings about a deeper natural sleep, lowers stress and anxiety by reducing cortisol, and increases serotonin.
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Supplements
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HUM uses an adaptogenic formula with Rhodiola Rosea root extract that can help the body manage stress and promote a sense of calm and focus.
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There’s a reason CBD is so highly sought-after these days—it’s not just a fleeting trend. It can help you chill out without making you feel groggy and is an easy way to get a bit of relief while still going about your day.
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These CBD gumdrops are not only an effective stress-management tool but are super delicious as well.
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This tasty blend is basically a hot chocolate that also happens to make your skin glow, fights bloat, and helps to balance stress. It’s formulated with seven superfoods, including cacao, which promotes the production of anandamide, the bliss molecule.
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These daily supplements are made with a clinical strength blend of four potent adaptogenic herbs that help regulate cortisol to reduce the effects of stress.
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Aromatherapy
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This essential oil blend was specifically created to help produce feelings of calm and reduce stress. It’s infused with Tarragon and Frankincense to help ground and stabilize moods. It has a lovely light scent of woods, herbs, and a touch of floral. Dab it on your wrists and temples when you start to feel a tension headache brewing.
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How beautiful is this smooth, porcelain oil diffuser? Add a few drops of soothing essential oils like lavender and eucalyptus and see how quickly it affects your mood for the better.
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Keep calm while on the go with this sweet little stress relief kit. It includes a Stress Release Oil Blend, Stress Release Inhaler, and Relax-O-Ring finger massager.
