A complete guide to chilling out

If you're reading this, you're probably stressed. Never fear: We've dug through the evidence to reveal what science really says about finding and holding onto zen.

Science
How to keep your anxiety from spiraling out of control
Panic attacks can happen to anyone, and recognizing their symptoms is the first step.
Sara Chodosh

Health
A step-by-step guide to giving yourself a massage
Relieve muscle tension with your own two hands.
By Sandra Gutierrez G.
Health
How your daily screen time affects your wellbeing
Don’t lose sleep over your Instagram feed.
Claire Maldarelli
Health
A psychologist explains how hope can make a difference in impossible times
It’s more enduring than optimism, but you to have to dig a little deeper to find it.
Jacqueline S. Mattis/The Conversation

More relaxing insights:

Stressed? Try screaming. Yes, really.
A primal scream won’t solve all your problems, but it’s a good first step.
By Sara Kiley WatsonJanuary 8, 2021
Stay calm under pressure with lessons learned in the world’s most stressful careers
You may not be a trauma surgeon, but you can use some of the same coping mechanisms.
Rob VergerJanuary 8, 2021
Fidgeting can relax your body and brain—if you do it right
The relationship between fidgeting and attention is complicated, but you can make the most of it with some strategies.
Stan HorazekJanuary 6, 2021
Boost your mood with emotional brain training
Don’t let your COVID-19 worries overwhelm you.
By Laurel Mellin/The ConversationJanuary 4, 2021
Can CBD help you chill? Here’s what we know so far.
The cannabis and hemp extract can be found in everything from lattes to kids’ vitamins. But doctors are still trying to learn if it’s healthy.
By Purbita SahaJanuary 4, 2021
To take the most relaxing bath ever, add some healthy tips
Maximize the mental and physical benefits of bathtime.
Rachel FeltmanJanuary 3, 2021
How to make the most of meditation with science
Your zen will have no limits in 2021.
Jessica BoddyJanuary 1, 2021
Walking correctly takes work—here’s how to improve every step
Experts explain how to make the most of your daily strolls.
Stan HoraczekMay 22, 2020
How to grieve in the midst of social distancing
Coming to terms with death and loss in the midst of COVID-19.
By Sara Kiley WatsonApril 23, 2020
A panic attack can mimic the symptoms of COVID-19. Here’s what to do about it.
Tips for dealing with all these feelings.
Rachel FeltmanMarch 30, 2020
How to lucid dream, and why you’d want to
A researcher explains how to control your subconscious.
Achilleas Pavlou/The ConversationJune 21, 2019
Lavender might actually help you relax
In mice, sniffing some linalool is similar to taking Valium.
By Jillian MockOctober 25, 2018
Learn how to take a nap because they’re really beneficial
How to make any time naptime.
By Eleanor CumminsMarch 23, 2018

Information will be added to this page as it's published online. Keep checking back!