Life can be a bit of a juggling act, and when you’re juggling the kids, your job and everything else, it’s easy to feel stressed out occasionally. And when stress sets in, it’s good to take a step back and do what you can to recharge and regain your calm.

But as most mums will know, time to yourself can be in short supply! But finding a quick 30 minutes could be just what you need to help you de-stress and feel a little more like you again.

Take a look at some simple stress relievers to help you enjoy 30 minutes of calm.

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1. Practice some yoga

Yoga is an excellent way to help de-stress. And despite common misconceptions, you don’t need to be super flexible or have great balance to enjoy it. A quick 30-minute de-stress yoga will help you take some time to be still and clear your head, helping you catch your breath ready to carry on with your day. Find a mat and a quiet space, and give this session a try:

2. Go for a walk

Going for a walk is a fantastic way to take a breather. It gives you the chance to get outdoors, get some steps in and step away from the temptation of doing jobs. With so many extra benefits that come with walking, it’s a great value 30-minute stress reliever that will just keep giving. 

3. Blast some of your favourite music

A little solo dance party can be a joyful and energetic way to beat some stress. You can have fun putting together some 30-minute playlists (around 8-10 songs) that you can rely on as needed to give you a little boost. Whether it’s a cleaning playlist, a ‘psyche yourself up for a meeting’ playlist, or something to get your day off to a great start, don’t underestimate the power of music to lift your mood. 

4. Play some solitaire

Playing games is another simple way to take a break and ease stress. A game of spider solitaire is easy to learn and can help you focus your mind elsewhere for a bit, before you get back to your day. The good news is that you can play anywhere, so it’s perfect for your commute or any other opportunity for a half-hour break.

5. Listen to an audiobook or a podcast

Want to switch off for half an hour? Try listening to an audiobook or a podcast. Most of us wish we had more time to read, but when time is tight, and audiobook or podcast could be just the ticket. Listening to a podcast or audiobook can be a nice treat, and something you can enjoy doing while driving, cooking or other activities where multitasking is possible.

6. Give yourself a hand massage

Your hands go through a lot each day, so why not treat them to a little massage to help give them a break while enjoying some calming benefits for yourself? A hand massage is easy to do, and you can spend some time using your favourite hand cream or oils to help you give your hands a treat. 

You could also do a basic manicure, tidying up your nails to give yourself a little boost.

7. Book an express facial

If you’re feeling stressed, it can easily show on your face. Stress can make your skin look tired and puffy, so what better way to treat your skin and de-stress than with an express facial? Many spas and beauty salons offer 30-minute express treatments which can be just what you need to enjoy the benefits.

Next time you’re stuck for gift ideas for yourself, add some spa vouchers to the list to help you enjoy those mini treatments when you need them most.

8. Sit outside with a cup of tea

A cup of tea can solve a lot of problems – there’s a reason why we’re a nation of tea drinkers! Taking time to make yourself a cuppa and enjoying a biscuit or sweet treat can be a welcome break in the middle of your busy day. You can make it even better by taking your cuppa outside!

Being outside can have a lot of benefits, including improving your sleep and boosting your mood. Even if it’s a little chilly outside, wrap up warm and go get some vitamin D – you’ll feel much better for it and the fresh air will help clear your head.

9. Watch an episode of a sitcom

Laughing is an excellent mood booster, so if you get 30 minutes to yourself, why not watch an episode of a sitcom? A classic sitcom like Friends is the ideal laughter therapy, giving you a little boost that will perk you up straight away. 

10. Cuddle your pet

Spending time with your pet can be another simple and easy way to beat stress. Your pets can help promote calm, and spending a little one-on-one time with them can also help you bond. Get cosy on the sofa and cuddle your pet and feel your stress melt away.

Dealing with persistent stress

If you feel stressed regularly, you should consider adopting some longer-term strategies to help you cope. There are a lot of stress-busting tips for women that can help you feel more in control of your life, and help you get on top of things.

Some great tips for preventing stress in the first place include:

Get organised

Getting organised is a good way of helping to prevent stress in the first place. From creating a budget to tackling a little bit of housework daily, you can save yourself a lot of stress by improving your organisation skills. Take some time to get on top of things and develop new routines that will help make each day easier.

Make time for sleep

Sleep is so important, and a lot of us don’t get enough. Prioritise your 8 hours to help you rest and recharge, so you can focus on the day ahead instead of letting feelings of tiredness creep in and leave you feeling frazzled. 

Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can be great for beating stress, giving you an outlet to burn off some excess energy. Choose an exercise you love, and even if you only manage it a couple of times a week, you’ll be doing your body and mind a favour. 

Eliminate stressors from your life (where possible)

If there are things in your life causing persistent stress, then it may be time to do something about it. A problem at work, or toxic relationships can really get to you over time, but you need to decide when enough is enough and take charge to eliminate the stressors from your life. It’s not always easy, but finding ways to transform the situation can make a big difference to your stress levels, leaving you a much happier person as a result.

While stress affects everyone from time to time, you can stop it from taking over your day. With just a short 30-minute window, you can try activities and rituals that will give your body and mind a much-needed break.

Find little pockets of time to help you relieve stress and enjoy a bit of me-time, ready to tackle what lies ahead.