Chances are we are all going to have ongoing stress in our lives. But that doesn’t mean we should give up and just deal. Accepting that there will be a certain amount of stress is beneficial so you can address it. Putting together a DIY stress relief kit is a great way to take your skills on the road.
Remember those exercises back in 5 minute stress management and Effective stress Management makes you a better you? Knowing where and when your stress is likely to increase is helpful, because then you can make a plan for how you will manage it. Taking some time to build a DIY stress relief kit for when you are away from home can be a great help.
We can all be great stress managers at home, but what about when we have to be away? Whether it’s the day to day chores about town or being on vacation making your own Stress Relief Kit can be a great go to when you are away from home.
What is a DIY Stress Relief Kit?
A DIY stress relief kit is a collection of physical an/or virtual items and reminders that help you to better manage stress as it arises. The U.S. Department of defense has endorsed a helpful application for phones called Virtual Hope Box and is a collection of virtual distractions and inspirations to help individuals better manage stress. It is customizable to the individual and is available in both the Apple and Google app stores.
Stress Relief to Go
It’s easy to build a DIY stress relief kit. First think of what helps you when you have an increase in stress. Second think of items that speak to each of your senses. And then find portable versions of those items to take with you.
Here are a few ideas
- Sight
- Pictures of loved one(s)
- Images of a favorite place
- book
- puzzle book
- small bottle of bubbles
- Sound
- Music/book/podcast
- Ear plugs-for those that are sound sensitive when stressed.
- Smell
- Favorite fragrance
- Taste
- gum or mints
- favorite candy
- Tea bag
- Touch
- Pocket rock
- Favorite touchstone item
- ring/necklace
- clothing item
The kit can include anything that helps you when you are feeling stressed.
Then what?
Once you have all the items that you think will be helpful, choose a way to store them. A small container or ziplock to throw in your bag may be all you need. It also depends on how long you plan to be away from home. I often carry items daily, but when I leave home for an extended period I add a few more items.
Test Drive Your Stres Relief Kit
Don’t forget to test drive your kit and add or subtract items as needed. Your kit is only as good as how you use and care for it.
What do you think?
Will you make a stress relief kit to take with you?
Leave a comment in the comments section.
Thanks for dropping by. Have a great day ~ Lynda
