Let’s face it, the last few years have been stressful. Entering another new year of uncertainty can be enough to send some people over the edge, which is why so many people are focusing on reducing their stress levels in 2023. There are a lot of pricey ways to reduce stress, which can lead you to feel even more stressed out. Luckily, there are quite a few ways to reduce stress without spending a fortune. Some methods are totally free and easy to do, which is an added bonus. So, you can feel more relaxed when it comes to handling your stress.

1. Tapping
One of the easiest ways to cut back on stress is to use tapping. This is a fairly new method that uses your body’s nerves to help remedy stress and anxiety. Tapping is incredibly easy to do, which makes it a great solution when there are certain spikes of stress or even anxiety. Learning how to tap is totally free too, as there are many guides and streaming videos online to help you figure it all out. You can even experiment to figure out which method works best for you. This will help you understand just what works for your unique needs so you can tackle stress quickly when it occurs.

2. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient art form that uses tiny needles to help specific areas of the body. The needles are placed in nerves which allow the body to relax and heal with ease. Some people do find the practice to be painful while others are unaffected by the procedure. However, when it is complete, many have claimed that they feel better than ever. Acupuncture can be pricey depending on the facility, but insurance can pay for some of the costs in many cases. If you’re not keen on needles, then there are some acupuncture mats that might be able to help you truly relax.

3. Cupping
Another method that is gaining in popularity is cupping. This actually helps you to reduce the tension in your muscles, especially tension caused by stress. When it comes to cupping, there are many places that offer the service. It is commonly found in massage parlors now, but you might have to call and ask around to see if it is available to you. Cupping is done when several special suction caps are attached to the back in various places. This helps to reduce tension in many ways while also helping to rid your skin of toxins as the cups make various parts of your skin sweat. If you don’t want to spend money on a cupping massage, then you can actually purchase cups to do the massage yourself. However, you will need someone to help you.

4. Running
If you’re not a runner, then getting out and running might be an exceptionally stressful thing for you. However, once you get the hang of running on a regular basis then you may find that your stress levels may decrease quickly. When you run, it actually allows your endorphins to kick in which helps to reduce stress and leaves you feeling healthier and happier than you may have thought possible. As you run, you may not be as susceptible to as much stress because your body will be physically and mentally healthier. Running is a free activity too, which will allow you to worry less about money, which can reduce stress all the more.

5. Comedy Class
Laughing is one of the best ways to help naturally reduce stress. In order to keep laughing you can watch comedies, chat with friends, and enjoy games that make you laugh. However, if you want to improve your ability to make others laugh and help yourself laugh too, then you might consider taking a comedy class. Spending time in class will help you to reduce your stress levels while allowing you to learn the art of laughing. Comedy classes might cost you a small fee, or you can try one out online, but the key to success here is researching the best possible option for you.

6. Keep a Journal
Writing is one of the keys to helping reduce stress. The art of sitting down and putting pen to paper is known to help you reduce the stress you are feeling in no time at all. When you journal, you should consider writing things down about your day, your feelings, or even goals that you’d like to accomplish. You can also do mindset activities or goal planning to help you feel more at peace. Journaling will help to reduce the stress you feel while allowing you to take some time to unwind and concentrate on yourself.

7. Read
Sometimes, all you need to unwind is a good book. Even if you’re not an avid reader finding a book to help you calm down can be one of the most efficient ways to relax. There are lots of book recommendations online if you’re having trouble finding the right match for you. However, if you’re not sure about what you enjoy it might take a few tries to find a book you love. When you read, you are able to fully relax your mind and your body, which can help stress quickly disappear. Reading is one of the cheapest hobbies there is, especially if you have a library card handy or enjoy sorting through free eBooks.

8. Meditation
One of the most widely recognized forms of de-stressing is meditation. When you meditate, you’re able to fully clear your mind, which will allow you to cut back on the time you spend trying to get rid of the stress that builds up during the day. When you meditate, it opens up your mind to new and exciting things which will allow you to find new ways of coping with stress. Meditation is one way to help you process stress throughout the day with special techniques, which can help with stress management for the long haul. Meditation can be tricky to get the hang of, but there are lots of tips to help you on your way.

9. Sleep
When it comes to stress, one of the best remedies is sleep. When you get enough sleep, you are able to process a lot more than you can when your body is lacking in the energy it needs. If you’re under-rested, you’re more likely to feel stressed out when it comes to the little things as well, which can make you feel as if you’re taking on more than you actually are. When it comes to sleep, there are many techniques to help you get better rest. You may also have to upgrade your mattress or find better sheets and blankets to help sleep soundly. Using a wave machine and blackout curtains can also help you to get the rest your body needs. If you’re struggling to sleep, you may also need melatonin to ensure you are able to drift off and stay asleep.

10. Therapy
If you’re still struggling with stress, then it may be time to speak to someone about your struggles. Stress can easily transform into anxiety and/or depression. Seeing a therapist is becoming more popular than ever since the pandemic began, so there are numerous new ways to help you get the care you need on your schedule. Online therapy is one of the most common forms of therapy now, especially since it allows you to have video chats, chat over the phone, and other methods that work for you. There are so many online therapists to choose from as well, so you can find the right option for you. Best of all, you’ll find that many insurance companies cover therapy, so you can manage your stress without having to worry about the price tag.

Managing stress doesn’t have to leave you feeling like you’re struggling. These ten tips will guide you to find numerous methods to help you manage stress, prevent some of it from happening, and feel better about yourself. Best of all, they’re all budget-friendly options to allow you to feel like stress management is possible.