The holidays are over, and it’s back to the daily grind. One of the best ways to get the year started is to commit to destressing when the going gets tough. This is made easy with certain daily activities you can introduce into your life. If you’re looking for a new years resolution or a way to destress in 2019, consider one of these hobbies that are proven to ease stress and contribute to a better sense of well-being.

Practice Healthy Living with an Exercise or Mindfulness Space

Focusing on improving body and mind is one of the most productive ways to ease stress each day. This can include a simple daily meditation practice or more active routines like yoga and exercising. To make the perfect space for mindfulness and exercise, begin by creating a relaxed atmosphere. Plants, flowers and candles go a long way to promoting relaxation and a sense of freshness conducive to breathing. Be careful not to clutter the space; ensure wide swaths of floorspace are cleared out when placing any workout equipment. Having a large mirror is great for assessing your physique as you work out. A wide window can be great for daydreaming and contemplation while riding an exercise bike or running on the treadmill.

Furnish your exercise room with:

Reflect on Your Day by Journaling or Making Art

Taking time out of your day to write in a journal or make a piece of art—whether fine art or a craft—is a great way to destress while reflecting on your life. To design the best space for journaling or artmaking, start by identifying a peaceful space in your home that gets plenty of sunlight. Place a desk that’s big enough to hold all your supplies without being too cluttered. Organization tools like magazine racks or modular drawer systems will help you keep everything organized while you work. That said, be sure to furnish your desk with some inspirational items like photos, books or favourite supplies. Finally, settle on a nice, comfy chair to complete the scene.

Furnish your creative space with:

Cultivate an Indoor Garden

Whether you have a back yard or not shouldn’t infringe on your ability to garden. Gardening is a great opportunity to focus on something outside of yourself and measure progress in a real, tangible way. Growing herbs or produce also gives you an opportunity to eat healthier. Decide whether you want to grow your garden on a windowsill or on a table/bench in a sunroom or balcony. No matter where you choose, ensure the plants can receive lots of light. Don’t have the space to grow a whole garden? Commit to just one or two houseplants that you can focus all your care on.

Beautify your indoor garden with: