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Are you feeling overwhelmed? Burnout is a real problem in today's fast-paced world, but taking a breather can help reduce stress and prevent it. However, the typical advice of taking a hot bath or listening to soothing music might not work for everyone. In this article, we'll explore eight effective ways to take a breather when you need it most. So, let's dive in and discover how to reduce stress and manage your mental health.
Enjoy the Chaos: Kick Back With Popcorn

Another way to take a breather is to indulge in a bag of Sweet Chaos popcorn. Sometimes, all you need is something crunchy to lift your mood and take your mind off your stressors.
Sweet Chaos has a delicious selection of flavors that makes my whole family's taste buds dance with joy! You can choose from sweet options like cake batter and peanut butter cup, or if you're more of a savory person, there are options like white cheddar and jalapeno blue cheese. No matter what you're craving, we know they have a flavor you'll love!

My kids absolutely love snacking on this popcorn – they're always asking for them in their lunchboxes or as a little something-something after school. And as a bonus, the sweet flavors make for a guilt-free dessert option that I can totally get behind as a mom!
Plus, their popcorn is made with non-GMO corn and natural ingredients, so you can feel good about indulging. So, next time you need a pick-me-up, grab a bag of Sweet Chaos popcorn and savor every bite!
Unleash Your Inner Child: Playtime Isn't Just for Kids
If you're looking for a playful way to relieve stress, look no further than your inner child. As we age, we often forget the simple pleasures of childhood that once brought us joy and laughter. But why should kids have all the fun? Rediscover the liberating feeling of playtime by exploring creative outlets that allow you to let loose and express yourself.
Coloring books are a great place to start. This childhood favorite has made a comeback in recent years, with adults finding solace in the simple act of coloring.
It's a great way to quiet your mind and let go of any worries. With a wide variety of designs, coloring books can cater to your individual preferences and provide a relaxing activity for your free time.
But why stop at coloring books? Let your imagination run wild with other playful activities like finger painting, building sandcastles, or flying a kite.
Unleash your creativity and allow yourself to immerse in these childlike activities fully. After all, playtime isn't just for kids.
Satisfy a Craving: Light Up Your Taste Buds with Fruity Licorice Candy

Sometimes we all need a little something sweet to get through a busy day. So, go ahead and take a breather with Wiley Wallaby licorice. Unlike other licorice candy, this one is soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor!
There are seven different flavors to choose from. You can go for the classic black or red, or try something fruity like watermelon or green apple. I loved that these are in chunky, bite-sized pieces that I can easily pop into my mouth while I continue to chug away working on the computer.
Plus, Wiley Wallaby is made with premium ingredients and is free of sugar, fat, dairy, and high fructose corn syrup. So I can indulge without the guilt!
Find Your Zen: Mindfulness Exercises
Mindfulness exercises are a great way to find your inner peace and reduce stress. These can be as simple as tuning into your breathing for a few minutes a day or incorporating meditation into your routine. Mindfulness allows you to be in the present moment without judgment and can help alleviate anxiety and worry.
If you're new to mindfulness, try downloading a meditation app like Headspace or Calm, which offer guided meditations for beginners. Or, simply take a few deep breaths before starting your day or during a break to reset and refocus.
By incorporating mindfulness exercises into your routine, you may find that you are better able to manage stress and perform better in all areas of your life. And if you're looking to take your stress relief to the next level, keep reading for tips on how to get moving and exercise your way to a more relaxed state of mind.,
Indulge in a Sweet: Experience Organic Dark Chocolate

Congo organic dark chocolate is not only a delectable treat, but it also boasts an array of health benefits that make it an exceptional superfood. From improving brain function and blood flow to reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, consuming moderate amounts of dark chocolate can have a significant positive impact on one's overall health and well-being.
Plus, I love using this chocolate when I make chocolate chunk cookies! It's made with the most exceptional cacao beans from Costa Rica which makes it the perfect indulgence for my little ones as well. The superior quality of this chocolate makes me feel confident that I'm giving my family the best.
So, the next time you indulge in a piece of dark chocolate, remember that you're not just satisfying your sweet tooth – you're also doing your body a favor!
Get Moving: Exercise to Reduce Stress
Taking care of your body can also help alleviate stress. Exercise is a great way to get moving and release tension.
Whether it's going for a walk, doing yoga, or hitting the gym, physical activity can help boost endorphins and reduce cortisol levels. Even just a quick 10-minute workout can do wonders for your mood.
Research shows that exercise can also improve sleep quality, which is essential for managing stress. Getting enough restful sleep can help you feel more energized and focused throughout the day.
Get Your Crunch On: Swap Potato Chips for Plantain Chips

Sometimes life can get chaotic and we might find ourselves downing a bag of unhealthy potato chips (guilty). However, there is a healthier alternative that I recommend – Congo Plantain Chips.
These chips come in three delicious varieties – salted, garlic, and plain – and won't leave you feeling like you're missing out. Plus, they pair perfectly with guacamole or hummus dip (especially the garlic).
According to our taste test, we discovered that salted plantain chips taste the most like regular potato chips, while plain plantain chips have a sweeter flavor that reminds us of banana chips.
Not only are they delicious, but they are also packed with essential nutrients such as potassium and fiber, making them an ideal snack during stressful times!
Disconnect to Reconnect: Digital Detox
In today's fast-paced world, it's become increasingly challenging to disconnect from technology. We're constantly glued to our devices, checking emails, scrolling through social media, and responding to messages.
While technology has undoubtedly made our lives easier in many ways, it can also contribute to stress and anxiety. That's where the concept of digital detox comes in.
Digital detox refers to taking a break from technology, unplugging from devices, and embracing the present moment. The idea is to disconnect from the world of notifications and distractions so that you can reconnect with yourself and those around you.
One way to practice digital detox is to set aside a specific time each day to disconnect from technology. This might mean turning off your phone during dinner or removing all electronics from your bedroom. Alternatively, you could try taking a weekend off social media or leaving your phone behind on a walk or hike.
Disconnecting from technology can be challenging, especially if you're used to being connected all the time. However, the benefits are well worth the effort. By disconnecting, you'll be able to quiet your mind, reduce stress, and experience the world around you with greater clarity and appreciation.
Final Thoughts
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed, try one of these techniques and see how it benefits your mental health. Remember, taking care of yourself is the first step towards a happy and fulfilling life. So, take a breather whenever you need it!