Stress can be incredibly harmful to your physical and emotional well-being. If you’re like most people, work and family responsibilities leave you feeling stressed out on a regular basis – but it doesn’t have to be that way. There are plenty of simple things that you can do in your daily routine to reduce stress and improve the quality of your life! Here are 5 ways to reduce stress with the help of a stuffed animal, an object that almost everyone loves to interact with and enjoy.
1) Get more sleep
Getting enough sleep is an important part of reducing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. As you age, your body’s ability to regulate sleep becomes more difficult, so making sure you get enough rest every night is key. The common goal for adults is 7-8 hours per night, though if you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, you may need more (or less). To help determine how much rest you actually need each night and whether it’s feasible for you to reduce stress through sleeping, keep track of how much sleep you actually get over two weeks. Are you getting at least seven hours on average? If not, now’s as good a time as any to invest in one of our snuggly friends from My Heart Teddy.
2) Get outdoors
Research has shown that getting outside does wonders for stress levels. Even being in nature—away from chaotic urban living, traffic and noise—can help relieve our anxiety. It also might be good for you to reconnect with your inner child; if you’re able, visit an ultra- kawaii store like My Heart Teddy (which stocks over 700 kinds of teddy bears). Plushies aren’t just for kids anymore!
3) Take time out to reflect
We often get so wrapped up in our busy lives that we forget to take time out for ourselves. Remember, you are more than your job; it’s important that you reflect on how you’re feeling, who you are and where your life is going. Take time out every day if possible. Even something as small as watching cartoons can help reduce stress and make you feel better about yourself and others. Of course, don’t forget your stuffed animal!
4) Be physically active
Studies show that those who engage in regular physical activity are less likely to develop depression than those who don’t. If you’re trying to fight your way out of depression, make sure you take care of yourself and get some exercise. You can try playing tennis or take up hiking. If any activity interests you, go for it! The key is just getting your body moving—something that has been scientifically proven to reduce symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. Even if you have limited mobility, exercising can help relieve stress and alleviate feelings of sadness or isolation.
5) Suck up your stress
After a hard day at work, there’s nothing quite like coming home and relaxing. Some people take baths, others sit down for dinner and a glass of wine, but what if there were an easier way? Kawaii plush toys are gaining popularity as home accessories that help adults relieve stress and relax. For just $25 you can unwind in your new adult-sized stuffed animal hammock while snuggling up with your new plush friend (for example). With today’s high-stress lifestyles, it’s important to find ways to alleviate stress on your own time—and My Heart Teddy makes it easier than ever before!
