3. Nature Walks:
Spending time in nature has known benefits for mental health, and walking in a natural setting can specifically reduce stress levels. Recent research discovered that a 60-minute walk in nature can reduce activity in the brain’s stress-processing areas. Nature walks offer not only a mental break but also the chance to breathe in fresh air, unwind, and engage in physical activity while connecting with nature.
4. Dancing:
For those who enjoy dancing, here’s some great news: dancing is an effective way to combat stress. Dancing for at least 150 minutes per week has been shown to reduce stress, depressive symptoms, and anxiety. Beyond the cardiovascular benefits, certain dances that involve close physical contact with a partner, like tango, can trigger the release of oxytocin, a bonding hormone. In fact, tango dancing has been found to be as effective as mindfulness meditation in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.