How to Soothe Without Eating

When you have problems at work, school or home, you might automatically reach for a candy bar or a bowl of ice cream to help yourself feel better. Eating your favorite comfort food can temporarily ease stress and unhappiness, but turning to food when you're upset may eventually lead to weight gain and health problems. Learning other techniques to soothe yourself when you're stressed out helps you control your weight and your emotional health.

Instructions

• 1

  Take a walk, do some push-ups or sit-ups, ride your bike or go to the gym. Exercising helps you feel less stressed out. It also helps you maintain a healthy weight and improves your energy levels.

• 2

  Talk to a friend or family member. Talking about a stressful event or issue to someone who cares helps you put the stressor in perspective and reminds you of your support network.

• 3

  Play with a pet. Physical contact with a pet helps you calm down, and your pet will enjoy it, too. In addition, focusing on something else you care about helps distract you from stressors.

• 4

  Write in a journal. Getting your feelings out on paper can help you move on and feel better.

• 5

  Listen to relaxing music and visualize the sounds of the music washing away all your stress. Music soothes you and reduces anxiety and worry.

• 6

  Pamper yourself with a massage, a manicure or a long, hot bath. Using scented lotions and products can also help your body relax.

• 7

  Close your eyes and visualize yourself in a peaceful place, such as at the beach, in the woods or by a lake. Think about what you would hear, smell and see.