By: Linda Yoo
Early in my IBD journey, I noticed a relationship between high stress and worsening IBD symptoms. Thus, I worked to de-stress and find new hobbies. My efforts backfired as I got more stressed from trying to de-stress which defeated the point. I joined new groups and created hobbies that ended up feeling like a chore, not sparking joy, and leading to frustration. To not fall into this pit hole again, I began intentionally choosing my de-stressing activities.
For the most part, I have come up with some rules I follow, which are de-stressing activities:
- do not push me to a breaking point
- do not diverge from my usual routines and habits
- do not require keeping a score or ending up with a win/loss
- can result in a product (e.g., a painting, vase) but there is no expectation of a product or to be productive
- can be left at any time without consequences or guilt
These activities require little effort, are flexible, and some can be altered to accommodate even my worst IBD days. I do not choose activities that require absolute commitment (e.g., scheduled classes) or do not have a bathroom nearby. These two items were my biggest problems when choosing activities. I found it at times difficult to share with strangers my dynamic disability when I missed a class or had to leave early. Additionally, not having access to a bathroom is very difficult for me, even in remission. I gravitate toward going to places that have bathrooms for peace of mind.
Some of my favorite de-stressing activities are:
- Take a bath with a bath bomb
- Sit at a coffee shop and people-watch.
- Go to the library and look at the art on the front covers of books
- Walk into a craft store/furniture store/home decor store/mall and get lost
- Listen to a podcast on a new topic
- Take a towel, lay it on the grass, and deep breathe
It is important to note that exercise can be a great de-stressing activity! I think it can be fun to diversify activities and have options for low-energy days as well. Choosing an activity on my list can feel a bit spontaneous and exciting, and I like to keep a list of activities with me on my phone. The most important part of my de-stressing activities is that they do not have an end goal, a predetermined outcome, or an expectation of being productive. To fully enjoy the moment and the activity, I need to be completely fine with it taking up space and time without worrying about any outcomes. I try to complete a few activities per week and deliberately make room in my schedule for de-stressing. If I do not plan the time I need for these activities, they get put on the back burner and I end up feeling burnt out. De-stressing activities are key to keeping my IBD in remission and boosting my mental health!