Stress Reduction Staycation

A Week of Discovery

Mental health professionals tell us, stress is a natural part of life. Managing it effectively is key to maintaining mental and physical well-being. Some leading causes of stress are financial challenges, work-related issues, relationship issues, family responsibilities, life changes, and health concerns.

When stress levels are increasing, new strategies for dealing with things might make sense. This Staycation theme is to uncover a new approach that works for you and/or your family.

If you are interested in exploring other staycation ideas check out our page for planning information and other themes.

Spending Time Outdoors

Camping is a great start. First, it’s getting away and a change of environment is good.  In addition to being away, spending time close to nature has a profound effect on how we handle high stress. When you immerse yourself in a natural setting, your brain gets a break from the constant barrage of loud noises, digital screens, and urban demands. This disconnect can help reset your sympathetic nervous system—the part responsible for the “fight or flight” response—leading to lowered blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and a drop in stress hormones like cortisol.

A Day at the Spa

Planning a spa day is an excellent way to unwind and alleviate stress. Choose a spa nearby so you get the most of your time away, and book treatments that target your concerns; deep-tissue massages for those trail-weary legs or a hydrating facial to restore your skin after sun exposure. If you’re camping with friends or family, turn it into a shared experience and plan a mini spa retreat together. It’s a great way to connect and unwind after outdoor excursions. Most spas can accommodate groups if you book with enough notice, so be sure to book ahead.

Many spas offer amenities that campers will love: cozy robes to change into, sandals, fruit-infused water, and specialty teas to name a few. Book this experience at Cactus Club Salon & Spa in Okotoks. click here for their website.

Equine-Assisted Learning

Equine-assisted learning offers an effective way to manage stress. This can be particularly beneficial if you are dealing with a serious health issue or personal loss. Interacting with horses, such as grooming or leading them, promotes mindfulness and emotional regulation. Horses are intuitive creatures that respond to human emotions, helping individuals focus on the present moment. Additionally, the physical activity involved in equine-assisted learning releases endorphins, enhancing overall well-being. It’s a unique and calming approach that combines emotional healing with physical benefits. Start by contacting Unhaltered Hope to learn more, their website is here.

Music Therapy

Music therapy can help you manage your stress and promote relaxation while also having fun! It uses the soothing and uplifting properties of music to promote relaxation and emotional well-being. Guided imagery, incorporating the sounds around you while listening or singing, can reduce your cortisol levels or enhance your connection with your family. Playing instruments or drumming lets you release any pent-up emotions. There are so many ways to incorporate music into your staycation. Begin your discovery with MasterworX Music Therapy, their website is here.

Aroma therapy

Aromatherapy is a gentle, safe approach for altering our day, using plant properties related to scent, to interact with our nervous system. This system is a complex collection of organs, nerves, and your brain which then use hormones and expand their effects through the entirety of your body. Scents most often associated with calming include lavender, frankincense, chamomile, clove, cinnamon, and sage Learn about common diffusers to release the scent into the air. Begin this discovery at Okotoks Natural Foods. Their website is here.

Conclusion

Everyone’s experience with stress is unique, and discovering a way of dealing with it will also be specific to you. Perhaps getting away, and spending time camping is just the tonic you need. We encourage you to explore some of the other options here to help manage stress.

Begin by booking your camping here.

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