Taking Time to De-Stress

By: Alison M. Armstrong, Collection Management Librarian, Radford University, Radford, Virginia

“Leave work at work” is great in theory but not always attainable. When things are stressful, you take it home. If you are like me, you carry it around with you by replaying conversations and enumerating all of the issues, preparing to make your case to anyone who will listen. When I am not at work, I need a way to disengage my brain from work.

Some ways I de-stress:

  • A bath. I have a fear of getting books wet which means I can’t read in the bath so I light candles, turn on an audio book, and settle in.              
  • “Hammocktime.” Lightweight, packable hammocks are trending again and are a great way to de-stress. No trees? No problem! There are portable hammock stands that allow you to relax anywhere. I find a book or music goes well with a hammock.
  • Massage. This is one that can be hard to justify because you are spending money on yourself but it is always worth it, as long as you are in a headspace where you can disengage your mind. For a cheaper route, see if there is a massage school nearby that has lower rates with students who need practice.
  • Board Games. I think if you find ways to put a little “hygge” in your life, it will de-stress you. Light some candles, invite some friends over, eat good food, make hot cocoa, and play board games. Make time for “cozy” moments.
  • Doggy snuggles. Cats will do in a pinch.
  • Journal. Sometimes just getting things on paper is a way to release it. Even if you aren’t writing about stressful things, I find writing in a journal is a nice way to “put the day to bed.” Don’t have time for journaling? You might try a “one line a day” journal. (It is more like 5 lines a day.) These are a great way for you to quickly summarize the day and is nice to be able to revisit later.
  • Vacation. A stay-cation will work, too, anything to get some time away and push the “reset” button. I take an annual 3-week vacation. My husband and I spend the winter planning the trip by researching what to see and do and making reservations. It helps us keep the winter blues away. On vacation, I completely disengage from work. I don’t check email. However, we are very lucky to be able to do that. If that isn’t possible, day trips or spending time in your local area acting like a tourist can get you into a different headspace and let you reset as well.
  • Concerts. Live music is a great de-stressor. It doesn't have to be a big stadium show, it can be a local band playing in a hole-in-the-wall place.
  • Hobbies. I enjoy scrapbooking and photography. 

It is easy to get caught up in all of the little moments that make up the day and forget ourselves but taking a little time for yourself can help you be your best. If you just don’t have time, maybe second best is a daydream about it in your future.