10 Stress Relief Activities for Adults (Fun & Practical Ideas)

Over 50% of people experience stress throughout their days. Although stress is common, addressing it can help you find relief for a happier and healthier life. That’s where fun stress relief activities come in. 

Below, we’ll share ways to relieve stress, including ideas you can incorporate into your daily routine and unique self-care ideas. From getting fresh air to enjoying spa treatments, there’s something for everyone. 

1. Make a New Recipe

If you like to cook, making new recipes can be the perfect stress reliever. Preparing and cooking food allows you to connect with your five senses, which helps calm your nervous system.

Instead of cooking being a mundane part of your day, be intentional about making it fun. Play some music, sip a refreshing drink, and take your time preparing the recipe. The best part is that you can do this for any recipe, whether it’s a fancy meal or a simple snack.

2. Have a Dance Party

Not only does dancing reduce anxiety and depression, but it’s also great exercise, which we know is crucial for mental and physical well-being. 

A dance party is great for almost anyone because it can easily fit into your daily routine and allow you to relieve stress quickly. You can break out in dance while you’re getting ready for your day, during your daily workout, or while spending time with friends or family. Create a playlist of all your favorite dancing songs so you’ll have it handy for a dance party anytime.

3. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day

Not only are spa days one of the most fun activities to relieve stress, but they also have many wellness benefits. Spa treatments can relieve anxiety, boost your mood, strengthen your immune system, and offer pain relief.

If you’re in Denver, Oakwell Beer Spa is the perfect place to enjoy spa treatments. Unwind solo, with friends, or with your partner in a peaceful setting. Oakwell Beer Spa has various packages so you can have your perfect spa day. Each package includes access to a private spa suite for up to two people to enjoy beer bath hydrotherapy, infrared sauna, and rain shower. You can also experience a zero gravity massage and locally brewed craft beer, wine, cider, tea, or kombucha for the ultimate relaxation.

4. Redecorate Your Space

If you like organizing and decorating, sprucing up your space can be one of the best ways to relieve stress. Not only can changing up your environment feel refreshing, but it also allows you to declutter, which psychologists say can clear your mind and reduce stress.

When redecorating your space, consider what might make you feel calm. For example, you might add a cozy candle, remove unneeded items, and incorporate calming colors like blue or green.

5. Do an Art Project

An art project is one of the most fun stress relief activities for adults who want to bring out their inner child. Research shows that making art significantly reduces stress for many people. Even just one art project can make a difference.

Your art project can be whatever you’d like — coloring, painting, creating a collage, working with clay, or a DIY craft. You can also make this a solo activity or one to enjoy with friends or family.

6. Get Fresh Air

Fresh air and nature have been proven to increase oxygen levels, which boosts your body's happy chemical, serotonin. This can lead to lower stress levels and reduced anxiety.
Make your time outdoors fun by doing something you enjoy, like having a picnic or reading in the park, taking your dog on a walk, or going on a hike. You can also easily tie this into your daily routine by enjoying your morning coffee or lunch outside.

7. Spend Time on a Hobby

Hobbies can relieve stress by allowing you to take a break, overcome burnout, and experience positivity and gratitude. You might pick up an old hobby or learn a new one, like baking, crafting, or playing a sport.

It can be difficult to make time for a hobby as a busy adult, so choose something you’d enjoy and would be willing to make time for. Then, schedule it into your calendar, whether it’s weekly or monthly. 

8. Take Time Off Work

If you’re able to take a day or two off work, this can be one of the best ways to relieve stress. Most people find work to be stressful, which can also lead to other health issues.

While many people can’t take extensive time off, you might be able to occasionally use a sick or vacation day. Then, use this time to simply rest or do another self-care activity you might not usually have time for, like spending time outdoors or enjoying a spa day.

9. Plan a Vacation

A vacation is one of the most fun stress relief activities, so try to plan one if possible. Getting away from your everyday routine and enjoying a new place is a great way to unwind, recharge, and improve your overall well-being. 

While a longer vacation is ideal, a day trip can also be beneficial, depending on your schedule and budget. If a vacation isn’t something you can plan for soon, you might also spend time planning a future vacation because this can give you something to look forward to.

10. Create a Restful Evening Routine

A restful evening routine can help you unwind after a stressful day and prepare for deep sleep. Getting good sleep is necessary for allowing your body to recharge and repair. A lack of good sleep can lead to low mood and other health concerns.

Create an evening routine that feels attainable for you and helps you unwind. Your routine can include:

• Taking a warm bath or shower
• Dimming the lights
• Turning off screens
• Stretching 
• Journaling 
• Reading

Fun Stress Relief Activities for Adults: Conclusion

We hope you found a few ways to relieve stress that you’re excited to try. Whether it’s getting fresh air, treating yourself to a spa day, or spending time with loved ones, there are many ways to feel better throughout your days.

While many stress relief activities can easily fit into your daily routine, try to schedule a bit of time for fun as often as possible. Once it becomes part of your routine, it’ll become more natural, and you’ll look forward to calming activities you enjoy.

If you’re looking to enjoy a unique and relaxing experience in Denver, book a spa day at Oakwell Beer Spa.