Our Favourite Stress-Relief Practice When Learning to Manage Stress.
Stress.
It’s a word we’re all too familiar with. Whether it’s the pressure of work, the demands of family life, or just the hustle of life, stress can creep into our lives in ways that leave us feeling drained.
But here’s the thing: not all stress is bad.
Some stress can actually be healthy & motivating. If you read last week’s blog - we talk all about it. The good, the bad, and the science behind it.
The key is finding a balance between the good and the bad, and creating a mindset and a daily ritual that helps harmonise it all.
This week, we are sharing our favourite 5 step stress-free practice that you can start incorporating into your routine, to keep stress in check and maintain your inner calm.
Bonus: it costs nothing! 🤯
Step 1: Morning Grounding
Start your day with a grounding practice that sets a positive tone. As soon as you wake up, take a few minutes to sit quietly and focus on your breath. If you can, get morning sunlight, and your feet onto the earth. Deep breathing reduces stress, morning sunlight boosts mood and regulates your circadian rhythm, while grounding (barefoot contact with the earth) balances your body’s energy.
This simple ritual aligns your mind and body, helping you start the day centred, energised, and focused. It’s a powerful way to nurture your well-being and prepare for whatever the day brings.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ceremonial Cacao
After your grounding practice, move on to preparing your morning cacao. This isn’t just about making a drink — it’s about creating a moment of mindfulness for you. Intentionally focus on the process of making, and drinking it — the rich aroma, the smooth texture, the warmth of the cup in your hands. This is your time to be present, to let go of any negative stress that might be lingering, and to centre yourself for the day ahead.
Step 3: Sit with no distractions
Once your cacao is ready, take a seat and sip it slowly. Let this be a moment of peace before the busyness of the day begins. Ceremonial cacao is not just a beverage; it’s a tool for relaxation and focus. Rich in theobromine, it provides a gentle, steady energy that supports mental clarity without the crash that you might get from coffee. It also contains magnesium, which is known to help ease tension and promote relaxation.
As you enjoy your cacao, let go of any anxieties, and embrace the sense of calm that washes over you, preparing you for the day ahead.
Step 4: Midday Check-In
As you move through your day, take a moment to check in with yourself. Use these questions as a self-audit tool.
How is my body feeling today? (Am I noticing any tightness, discomfort, or tiredness that might need some care?)
How am I doing emotionally? (Have I been feeling a bit more on edge or overwhelmed? How can I be kinder to myself?)
How is my mind today? (Am I finding it easy to focus, or do I feel a bit scattered? What might help me feel more centred?)
How am I handling my day-to-day tasks? (Am I feeling balanced, or do I need to give myself a little more space and patience?)
How has my sleep been lately? (Am I waking up feeling refreshed, or could I use a bit more rest?)
Step 5: Evening Wind-Down
Finally, end your day with a wind-down ritual that helps you release any lingering stress. This could be a warm bath, some light reading, or a few minutes of journaling. The goal is to create a sense of closure for the day, allowing your mind and body to relax fully before sleep. Incorporating a small cup of cacao here can also be a lovely way to end the day on a peaceful note.
Try to avoid exposing yourself to too much blue light and artificial light after sunset, as this can disrupt your circadian rhythm - the natural sleep-wake cycle that regulates your body's functions.
As you integrate these simple, yet powerful steps into your daily routine, remember that the goal isn't to eliminate stress entirely but to create a sense of harmony that grounds you through even the busiest of days.
Within you, you have the tools to maintain inner peace and resilience ✨