Nourishing Your Soul: Managing Stress in Turbulent Times

Hey there, friends. Last week was a lot, wasn’t it? The world can feel like it’s spinning faster than ever, and sometimes it’s hard to catch your breath. Stress has a way of creeping in, tightening our shoulders, and clouding our hearts. But here’s the good news: you’ve got the power to carve out moments of peace and nourish your soul, even in the midst of chaos. I’m sharing some simple, heartfelt ways to manage stress and find calm—ideas that feel like a warm hug for your spirit. Let’s dive in.

Stroll Through Nature

There’s nothing like a walk in nature to reset your soul. Whether it’s a park, a forest trail, or just your backyard, let the trees, birds, and fresh air remind you that the world is still beautiful. Notice the crunch of leaves underfoot or the way sunlight filters through branches. Even a 15-minute walk can feel like a mini-vacation for your mind. Bonus points if you leave your phone behind and just be.

Pause and Breathe with Prayer or Meditation

There’s something sacred about pausing to connect with something bigger than yourself. Whether it’s a quiet prayer that grounds you in faith—like reflecting on John 16:33 (NRSV), “I have said this to you, so that in me you may have peace. In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world!”—or a meditation session that helps you focus on the present, these practices can melt away tension. Try sitting in a cozy corner of your home, closing your eyes, and taking slow, deep breaths. If you’re new to meditation, apps like Calm or Hallow (more on that later) can guide you with soothing sessions as short as five minutes. Even a moment of gratitude—thanking God for one small thing—can shift your perspective.

Pick Up the Phone and Call a Loved One

Sometimes, all it takes is hearing a familiar voice to feel grounded. Call your mom, your best friend, or that cousin who always makes you laugh. Share what’s on your heart, or just catch up on life. Connection is medicine for the soul, and a quick chat can remind you that you’re not alone in navigating life’s storms.

Share a Meal with a Friend

There’s something magical about breaking bread with someone you care about. Plan a lunch date with a friend—whether it’s at a cozy café or your kitchen table. Swap stories, laugh, and savor the moment. The act of showing up for each other, even for an hour, can lift the weight of stress and remind you of the joy in simple connection.

Curl Up with an Inspirational Book

A good book can be a lifeline, pulling you out of stress and into a world of hope or wisdom. The Bible offers timeless guidance and comfort, grounding you in faith. The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz offers simple, profound truths about living with peace and authenticity. For uplifting, faith-based inspiration, The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren feels like a warm conversation with a wise friend, while Anxious for Nothing by Max Lucado provides a gentle, poetic take on resilience—sparking creative joy to live boldly. Find a cozy spot, maybe with a cup of tea, and let the words soothe you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Find Comfort in a Church Service

If faith is part of your life, attending a church service (or any spiritual gathering) can feel like coming home. The music, the community, the shared hope—it’s a powerful way to recharge. Even if you can’t attend in person, many churches stream services online. Light a candle, sit quietly, and let the words and songs wash over you.

Move Your Body

Exercise isn’t just for your body—it’s a gift to your mind. Whether it’s a heart-pumping run, an intense strength training session, a gentle yoga flow, or a dance party in your living room, moving your body releases endorphins that combat stress. Try a 20-minute workout video on YouTube or go for a brisk walk around your neighborhood. You’ll feel lighter, I promise.

Listen to an Uplifting Podcast

Podcasts are like little gifts of wisdom or laughter you can tuck into your day. For inspiration, I recommend “The Happiness Lab” with Dr. Laurie Santos, which dives into the science of joy with practical tips, and “On Being with Krista Tippett,” which explores life’s big questions with heart. Now, add 10% Happier with Dan Harris to the mix—a refreshing take with a diverse range of guests like scientists, psychologists, and mindfulness teachers offering evidence-based calm in 20–45 minute episodes. Pop in your earbuds while you cook, walk, or sip coffee—it’s like having a wise friend in your pocket.

Cook Something Comforting

Oh, how I love the kitchen! Cooking is my therapy—chopping veggies, stirring a pot, and filling the house with delicious smells. Whip up something that feels like love on a plate, like a hearty soup, your grandmother's pasta sauce, or a fresh salad with vibrant colors. The act of creating something nourishing is a beautiful way to care for yourself. Bonus: share it with someone you love for extra soul-warming points.

Unwind with Guided Meditation Apps

For moments when your mind races, apps like Calm and Hallow offer gentle guidance to breathe deeply and reconnect. Calm delivers soothing stories and mindfulness exercises for everyday calm, perfect for beginners. Hallow, a faith-infused companion, blends prayerful meditations, Bible sleep stories, and rosaries—think Calm meets spiritual depth, with voices like Jonathan Roumie leading you to peace. Download Calm (30 Day Guest Pass) or Hallow today, and let them anchor you in turbulent times.

Soak in a Warm Bath

Is there anything more inviting than a warm bath to unwind? Light some candles, add a handful of soothing bath salts (like Epsom for muscle relief) or a few drops of lavender essential oil, and let the water ease your worries away. Play soft music or savor the silence—it's a gentle way to pamper yourself and feel renewed, perfect for melting stress after a busy day or post-workout.

Watch a Sunrise or Sunset

There’s something awe-inspiring about watching the sky paint itself in pinks, oranges, and purples. Find a spot—a beach or lake, your porch, a hill, or even your window—and take a moment to witness the beauty of a sunrise or sunset. It’s a gentle reminder that every day brings a fresh start and a chance to let go.

Volunteering: Giving Back with Heart

There’s a special warmth in lending a hand to others. Volunteering—whether at an animal shelter, a local food bank, community garden, or a friend’s project—lets you step outside yourself and find peace through purpose. Even an hour a week can lift your spirits, and studies show helping others eases stress. It’s a beautiful way to connect, maybe even sharing a homemade yogurt with your new volunteer friends!

A Few More Ideas to Nourish Your Soul

• Journal Your Thoughts: Grab a notebook and write down what’s weighing on you, then jot down three things you’re grateful for. It’s a simple way to process and shift your focus.

• Practice Deep Breathing: Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Do this for a minute to calm your nervous system.

• Create Something: Paint, knit, draw, or even rearrange a corner of your home. Creativity is a powerful stress-buster.

• Listen to Music: Make a playlist of songs that lift your spirit—maybe some upbeat tunes or calming classical. Let the music carry you.

• Pet an Animal: If you have a furry friend, spend a few minutes cuddling or playing. No pet? Visit a friend’s dog or cat for some unconditional love.

A Final Note

Stress can feel overwhelming, especially when the world feels heavy. But you don’t have to carry it all at once. These small acts—whether it’s a walk, a prayer, or a warm meal—are like little anchors, grounding you in the present and reminding you of your own resilience. Pick one or two that call to you and give them a try. You’re worth it, and your soul deserves a little TLC.

What’s your favorite way to de-stress? I’d love to hear your ideas—drop them in the comments or share them with a friend. Let’s keep nourishing our souls, together.

With love,

Amy