Feel Better With Stress Relief Games Articles | Stress

By: Melinda Grossman

You and I know there are numerous medications available to help relieve stress. But why not also consider the non-medicinal stress reducers available. Stress relief games are a marvelous way to enthrall your mind and take away some of the pressures of life.

Reducing stress doesn’t have to mean spending tons of money on therapy or drugs or possibly even self-help groups. It can be as simple as going for a walk, playing catch with your kids, or a variety of other games for stress relief.

Or it may be as simple as pulling out that unused deck of cards and playing a game of solitaire. How about taking on the Sunday crossword puzzle or some Sudoku? Or maybe you have unopened jigsaw puzzles crammed in the back of the closet or board games that have been collecting dust. You can enjoy stress relief with all these games.

Take a break for 5 or 10 minutes and enjoy a stress relief game. Health care professionals say taking your mind off of the source of stress and focusing on something totally different for even a few minutes is very helpful and beneficial to your health.

Maybe you’re computer savvy and enjoy using the Internet. If so, there are many games available on-line that will tantalize your mind while busying your hands. Some of the favorite on-line games are Solitaire, Fly Swatter, or Mong Jong. You can find a game that is simple but compelling or one that is difficult and mind-boggling. Playing the game of your choice will create a thought process that doesn’t entail everyday stress and therefore will ease your mind . . . and the stress you’re experiencing.

If you find yourself in a large group setting there are many stress relief games perfect for a crowd. Some of the favorites are softball, baseball, horseshoes, bocce ball, and croquet. These games are a wonderful source for relief from everyday stress but yet they build strength and team work. During the games you’ll be able to burn up negative energy as well as absorb some natural sunlight and breathe in some fresh air.

If in a smaller group setting you may want to try some personal type games such as “Liar, Liar” where each person makes up three or four things about themselves and the other members of the group need to decide what is true and what is not. Or, “Who Likes What” where each member of the group writes down what they like in certain categories. The lists are then given back to the leader and read aloud. Once the lists are read the other members of the group try to decide who the list belongs to.

And of course the ever popular charades, Pictionary, or the multitudes of popular board games for a gathering of friends are all wonderful stress relief games.

Games played within a group setting can also create bonds and be good ice-breakers for folks who just met. Relaxation sets in and the entire group feels at ease with themselves and one another. And although group gaming can be competitive, it also makes the members feel equally adequate to one another.

If you have children, your stress will affect them. This is another good reason to take time each day to interact with them in play. You may decide to toss the ball back and forth, shoot a few hoops, or even throw the Frisbee but, no matter what you choose, you will alleviate your stress and get closer to your children. You may even decide to sit down with them and color or read or even teach them a new skill. The enjoyment you derive will outweigh the stress of the day and your face with light up with a smile.

There are many types of stress relief games. Use your imagination, your creativity, and your desires as you select games for stress relief to calm your mind. Remember, life is meant to include fun and games.