5 Ways to Chill Out When You Only Have 10 Minutes

July 23, 2024

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When was the last time you were able to really, truly chill out? If you can’t remember, it’s probably high time you took a break. Too much stress without relief can interrupt sleep, sap your energy, cause brain fog, and over time lead to heart disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, anxiety, and more.

Though an hour (or more) of downtime would be fantastic, the truth is, if you use the time strategically, 10 minutes is enough to take the edge off your stress. Here are some good ways to relax when the clock is ticking. (Hint: Scrolling social media isn’t on the list.)

1. Do some yoga

An hour-long yoga class is great, but you can reap some of the stress-relieving benefits in far less time. Research shows that even just 10 minutes a day can relieve discomfort in the eyes, back, hips, and neck, and boost mood.

Try it: 10-Minute Calming Yoga

2. Take some deep breaths

It seems so simple, but deep breathing is actually a powerful tool to help you chill out. Research shows it can lower blood pressure and relieve both chronic and acute stress. There are many approaches to deep breathing; one simple technique, box breathing, is even used by members of the military (talk about a stressful job).

Try it: Box breathing

3. Try guided meditation

Meditation can seem intimidating, so it’s a good idea to start with a short, guided one. A “come to your senses” meditation can help you settle into your body and calm racing thoughts, though there are many other types of guided meditation (look on YouTube, or download an app like Mindfulness). Even just 10 minutes a day can help you chill out, have better focus, and more.

Try it: Come to Your Senses meditation

4. Go for a brisk walk

Yes, even 10 minutes of brisk walking a day is an effective way to chill out, research suggests. Plus, regular exercise also helps keep depression and anxiety at bay. Build in short walks after meals, which also help with managing blood sugar and even longevity.

Try it: 12 Super-Simple Ways to Add More Nature to Your Day

5. Call someone

Having social support helps in two ways: It can relieve stress in the moment, and it can build your resilience to future stresses. Reach out to your bestie, or a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while. If you don’t have someone to call, you’re not alone: 1 in 3 adults over 45 in the U.S. reports feeling lonely. There are things you can do, including volunteering, or joining a group, such as a book club (many local libraries offer them).

Try it: What You Can Do to Feel Less Lonely