Feeling Anxious? Try These Unconventional Ways to Chill Out and Relax for Anxiety-free Living
- Carla Figaro
- Jan 25
- 4 min read
Updated: Mar 3
Anxiety is a common feeling that many of us face at different times in our lives. Whether it stems from work stress, challenging relationships, or the chaos in the world, it can feel like a heavy burden.
While traditional methods such as meditation and exercise are popular for combating anxiety, it's helpful to think beyond these well-trodden paths. In this post, we’ll discover unconventional ways to relax and ease anxiety that you may not have considered before.
Get Lost in a Good Book
Diving into a compelling book can provide a wonderful escape from anxious thoughts. When you read, you can step into new worlds, meet fresh characters, and explore diverse viewpoints.
Opt for genres that ignite your imagination, such as fiction, fantasy, or poetry; these can be especially powerful.
For example, reading a gripping mystery novel can keep your mind engaged for hours. Studies show that spending just six minutes reading can lower your heart rate and reduce muscle tension, making it an effective stress reliever.

Create a Comfort Nook
Designing a comfort nook at home can serve as a personal retreat when anxiety strikes. Choose a space that brings you peace and comfort.
Stock it with soft pillows, gentle lighting, and familiar scents.
In this nook, you might savor a cup of herbal tea, journal your thoughts, or simply take a moment to unwind.
Having a dedicated space can significantly enhance your ability to relax and create a mental association with calmness whenever you're there.
Find creative nook ideas at https://designconfetti.com/new-blog/how-to-create-the-perfect-cozy-reading-nook
Try Forest Bathing
If you’re unfamiliar with forest bathing, it’s an incredible practice, originally from Japan known as “Shinrin-yoku.” This approach encourages you to immerse yourself fully in a natural setting; beyond just hiking.
Visit a local park or wooded area, take a deep breath, and let yourself absorb the scenery. Feel the texture of a tree’s bark, listen to the gentle rustling of leaves, and breathe in the fresh scent of nature. Research indicates that spending time in nature can decrease cortisol levels by up to 15%, promoting tranquility. You can find more details on the benefits at

Experiment with Sound Therapy
Music influences our emotions deeply, making sound therapy an interesting remedy to explore.
Curate playlists filled with soothing music, nature sounds, or binaural beats designed for relaxation.
You could also try sound-generating tools like singing bowls or tuning forks. These instruments resonate with the body and may help shift your mental state. In fact, listening to calming music for just 30 minutes can significantly lower anxiety levels, according to various studies.
Engage in Creative Expression
Releasing your creativity can effectively counter anxiety.
Engaging in art, crafting, or writing lets you express your feelings without the pressure of perfection.
Grab paints, sketchbooks, or a camera to capture moments that inspire you.
For instance, creating a simple painting or writing a poem can provide an emotional outlet, helping you manage stress.
You can get started on your paint journey with this all inclusive paint set https://amzn.to/42uLN5e
Research indicates that engaging in creative activities can reduce anxiety symptoms by more than 30%.

Practice Laughter Yoga
Laughter yoga combines laughter exercises with yoga breathing techniques, making for a unique yet effective approach. It might seem odd, but laughter is known to trigger the release of endorphins, helping you feel lighter and more relaxed.
Join a local laughter yoga group or start practicing by yourself. Laughing freely, even without a joke, can break the anxiety cycle while fostering a sense of community and joy. Research shows that even 10 minutes of laughter can boost overall mood for up to two hours.
Learn techniques with Dr. Madan Kataria the creator of this practice.
Explore Mindful Walking
Mindful walking is a meditative practice that encourages you to focus on the present moment as you move.
Pay close attention to your breaths, steps, and surroundings during your walk.
As you stroll, notice the feeling of your feet on the ground, the crunch of leaves, or the sound of birds.
This awareness not only reduces anxiety but also enriches your experience of the world around you.
Practicing mindful walking for just 20 minutes can enhance your overall mental clarity and emotional well-being.
Utilize Aromatherapy
Essential oils can work wonders in calming your mind and reducing anxiety levels. Scents like lavender, chamomile, and bergamot have soothing properties that can help create a peaceful atmosphere.
You can use essential oils in multiple ways: diffuse them at home, add them to a warm bath, or apply them to your wrists. Even a quick inhale from the bottle can provide a moment of calm when anxious feelings arise.
Finding Your Calm
When anxiety surfaces, consider trying these unconventional strategies.
Whether you immerse yourself in nature, lose yourself in a book, or create a relaxing space, you have many options for finding peace.
Everyone’s experience with anxiety is unique. What calms one person may not work for another. So, feel free to experiment and discover which methods resonate with you. Remember that caring for your mental health is essential, and exploring different techniques can be just what you need to chill out and relax.
Your Life is Calling - Let's Go Get It!
~the Figaro effect~
Lovely, definitely needed more ways to help reduce anxiety! I've experimented with sounds, but excited to try the aromatherapy and forest bathing.