As an actor, you can find yourself under constant pressure. It’s awesome that you get to do what you love, but going to auditions, being prepared, looking perfect and professional, and so much more is definitely overwhelming.
However, there are a lot of ways to de-stress, that not only apply to actors, but can also be part of anyone’s life! :) Of course, meditation and candles help, but there are a lot of ways that are a little less talked about that work just as well (if not better).
Read!
I did not believe this one at first, but reading is actually the most effective way to destress quickly. Studies show that reading a book helps people destress faster than meditation, baths, and all the other popular ways can :) It’s a perfect time to get away from the screen and other distractions, and to just focus on another world for a bit.
Journal
This may sound generic, but writing for five minutes every day in a journal is actually really stress-relieving. No matter what you have going on, writing it out takes a weight off your shoulders that nothing else can. You’re able to reflect and get everything out on paper without having to filter what you want to say.
Working out
It can be so frustrating to have to get up and do lots of physical activity, but I find workouts to be really fulfilling during my day. I especially like going on runs, because although it hurts insanely, you feel so proud afterwards. If you’re in a physically demanding show, it’s also helpful to do some exercises that are more difficult than what you’ll be doing later that day, so you’ll be more prepared to do so later. Even if you’re not in a show, doing any kind of activity is very satisfying and healthy.
Nature
Being in nature is another strong way to destress. I love taking walks in the woods or really anywhere as long as it has trees and other plants! I tend to get really stressed about climate change and how the world might be in a few years, but going out into nature serves as a reminder that there’s still hope for us :) If you like animals, spending time with them also releases tension. Whether or not you have a pet, helping out at an animal shelter is a way to give back while also hanging out with cute dogs and cats all day!
Giving Back
Volunteering is a major way to help the community and reminds us of what we are so fortunate to have. When I’m stressed out, I often turn to buying myself something nice or filling up on desserts. Sure, this can be awesome, but most of the time you don’t feel different after doing so. However, if you’re buying a gift or making food for a shelter, you most likely feel far happier since you were able to do good for someone besides yourself. You'll also get to meet new people!
Creativity
You’re probably thinking, “I’m an actor; my job is literally to be creative 24/7!” I used to hate visual arts, because I thought I was horrible at it. I probably still am, but when it’s just for fun you don’t need to care as much about the little details. Invite a friend over and draw each other’s portraits. Go to a park and paint what you see. Buy clay at your nearby craft store and make a fun sculpture. Personally, I like making collages the best. The possibilities are literally endless! It’s great if you can get a pretty end product, but the experience is even more valuable.
As you can tell, these ideas can apply to most people, no matter who they are or what they do. Remember to stay relaxed! :)
Xo, Weezy