New Year, New You, No Stress: Simple Self-Care Tips to Stress less in 2025

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So, I’m writing this blog on the bus to work, listening to All About That Bass by Meghan Trainor (an absolute banger if you ask me). To be honest, I can’t tell if starting this blog is a product of my “new year, new me” phase or just the result of watching that one motivational TikTok after doom scrolling for four hours. Either way, here we are.

Lately, I’ve been thinking: what are the small things I can do to help handle the stress of school, work, and, well, life? Even waking up feels like a full-on challenge some days. But overtime I’ve found a few things that help, and I’m hoping to get back into them this year.

1 . Running

I know—it sounds like torture. How could anyone enjoy running for fun? But hear me out. Running is actually not that bad when there’s no pressure. I’ve learned to enjoy it more when I stop obsessing over my pace or finish time. Let’s be honest, most of us aren’t setting New Year’s goals hoping to be David Goggins (kudos to him, though); it’s about clearing your head—finding a sense of calm and mental clarity—and feeling good afterward. My only issue is trying to stay consistent with it; I feel like I always start off strong and then dwindle. I think it’s because I let myself use school, work, and football as excuses. But lately, I’ve realized that everything I do is for me.

This realization—that everything I do is for me—has completely changed my approach to running (and life). Running isn’t about looking a certain way or impressing anyone—it’s my way of finding peace in the middle of the chaos inside my head. last Friday I really didn’t want to go for a run. It got to the point where I was actively doing everything in my power to put it off but I looked myself in the mirror and said, ‘This will all help to improve me as a person—not my appearance, not a persona I put on, but the me I know and live with.’ And you know what? I felt so much better afterward , I truly believe nothing beats the feeling of a runners high . Well, jeez, that was a little serious, hey, but sometimes you need it.

2 .Reading

Finding a little escape can actually be healthy—hear me out. Imagine immersing yourself in a world where you get to watch someone else’s life unfold, experience thrilling adventures, or witness a beautiful romance develop. For just a moment, you can set aside your own worries and let your mind wander somewhere new.

Of course, it’s important to remember that escaping into a book isn’t a permanent solution to life’s problems. Running away from them won’t help (but we’ll save that for another discussion). Still, taking a mental break with a good story can be a simple and healthy way to recharge. So, next time you feel overwhelmed, grab your favorite book and let the power of storytelling transport you to a calmer place. What’s your go-to escape? Share it in the comments below!

3 . Being around those who make you happy

Being around people who love you can be surprisingly powerful when it comes to reducing stress. Sometimes, just sitting in the company of those who make you laugh or feel at ease is enough to reset your mind. I’ll admit, my social battery is often on the floor, and after a day filled with anxiety-induced thoughts, the idea of being around others can feel overwhelming. But I’ve found that reconnecting with family or friends helps more than I expect. Before you think here’s another stupid claim, I promise it’s not; it’s a fact, it’s scientifically backed!

Research published in the Annals of Behavioral Medicine found that people who discussed tough times with a friend by their side experienced lower pulse rates and blood pressure. Good friends and a strong support network don’t just lift your mood, they can literally make your body feel calmer.

So, next time you feel stuck in your head, consider reaching out to someone who makes you feel safe. Sometimes, a little connection is all it takes to ease the weight. So when you’re feeling overwhelmed, maybe reach out to a friend or family member, or arrange a low-key get together like grabbing a coffee or a little walk.

Now, here’s the fun part: every time you accomplish something, stay consistent, or need to talk about something, drop me a message at the end of my blog or send me an email. I’d love to hear about it and maybe even share it here to celebrate your progress. Let’s keep each other inspired—cause, trust me, we’re all figuring it out as we go