
Finding Calm in Chaos with PowerWash Simulator
The article discusses how playing PowerWash Simulator can provide a sense of calm and order in a chaotic world, offering a therapeutic escape through its simple, satisfying gameplay.
All articles tagged with #stressrelief

The article discusses how playing PowerWash Simulator can provide a sense of calm and order in a chaotic world, offering a therapeutic escape through its simple, satisfying gameplay.

With the stress of the 2024 presidential election results looming, consider watching election-themed movies to distract yourself. Recommended films include 'Napoleon Dynamite' for comic relief, 'All The President’s Men' for a serious take on investigative journalism, 'The Manchurian Candidate' for a classic political thriller, 'The Candidate' for a unique political approach, and 'Election' for a comedic high school rivalry. These films offer a mix of humor, drama, and political intrigue, providing an engaging alternative to the real-world election tension.

On election day, after casting your vote, it's suggested to avoid the stress of constant news updates by reading a book instead. This can help distract from the anxiety of election results and provide a peaceful alternative to screen time. Spending the evening reading can also aid in falling asleep faster, offering a mental break from the political tension.

Naturopathic Doctor Corina Dunlap suggests various non-sexual ways to boost the "love hormone" oxytocin, which is key to feeling happy and motivated. These methods include listening to or playing music, giving or receiving massages, cooking and eating with family, hugging for ten seconds or more, and meditating, especially before stressful events. These activities can help increase oxytocin levels, leading to a greater sense of connection and well-being.

Nutritional psychiatrist Dr. Uma Naidoo recommends consuming certain foods and beverages to help manage stress and anxiety. These include green tea for its L-theanine and polyphenols, anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric and cinnamon, masala chai, golden milk turmeric lattes, extra virgin olive oil and avocado oil for their healthy fats, lavender tisane for its calming effects, and a variety of vegetables for their nutrients and antioxidants. These foods, along with a balanced diet rich in phytonutrients, can help reduce neuroinflammation and promote relaxation. It's important to observe how these foods affect your mood, as individual responses can vary.

A journalist shared their experience of taking a one-minute cold shower daily for a year, following advice that it could provide health benefits like increased energy, focus, and improved mood due to adrenaline and dopamine release. While the health benefits are debated, the practice is considered safe and potentially beneficial, with recommendations for cold exposure varying from 11 minutes per week to daily showers. The journalist plans to continue the routine in 2024, finding it a valuable moment of mindfulness and stress relief.

The article discusses the benefits of taking short breaks during the day, termed "oasis moments," to boost energy and productivity. Dr. Sue Varma and Professor Cindy Wu highlight the importance of these breaks for cognitive restoration, mood improvement, and overall well-being. The practice, which can be as simple as a five-minute period of wakeful relaxation, is recommended to be done before energy levels dip, ideally in the midmorning. The article suggests that incorporating these breaks into daily routines can have cumulative positive effects on one's health and sense of control.

Breathwork, the intentional practice of controlling one's breath, can significantly improve physical and mental well-being by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and a sense of safety. Mindfulness instructor Jackie Stewart highlights the benefits of breathwork, including reduced stress and anxiety, and improved mood and focus. She suggests simple exercises like Box Breathing, Full Body Breathing, and the 3-Part Breath to help individuals manage moments of tension and develop a more balanced mindset. Additionally, breathwork can serve as an entry point to deeper meditation practices.