Honestly, everyone is stressed nowadays. Stress is your new friend, be it the deadlines at work, traffic jam or the text messages piling up on your phone. Majority of the populace is relieved by resorting to yoga, meditation or weekend getaway. However, what was it like to deal with the stress in surprising and even unpredictably entertaining ways? What if we explore some weird ways to reduce stress naturally that actually backed by science.
This article will discuss 10 weird yet science-supported ways to reduce stress without any medication. These are not your set of usual tips about taking a deep breath, they are innovative, sensible, and more than that, efficient.
1. TALK to yourself out loud
It might be weird to say the least but self-talk can be used to sort out your thoughts and reduce anxiety. A study conducted at Michigan State University demonstrates that addressing yourself in the third person can decrease the level of emotion and foster a level of rational thought.
When you are under stress, replace saying you are so stressed, with saying you have it. It immediately changes the mindset and makes you feel more superior.
2. Chew Gum Like It’s a Meditation
There is more to chewing gum, it is a mini stress reliever. Research has also demonstrated that chewing gum reduces the stress hormone (cortisol) and enhances alertness.
Select a fruity or minty taste, chew gradually and concentrate on the beat. It is a fast, silent and convenient means to take time in any place you are.
3. Talk to Your Plants
Yes, really. Studies show that spending time with plants lowers cortisol — the stress hormone. But talking to them? That takes it to another level. Engaging with nature, even through simple conversation, helps regulate your breathing and slows your thoughts.
Next time you water your peace lily, tell it about your day. You’ll be surprised how grounding it feels.
4. Watch ASMR or Soap-Cutting Videos
Ever lost track of time watching oddly satisfying videos online? There’s a reason. ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) triggers calm, tingling sensations that relax your body. Soap cutting, paint mixing, or even towel folding videos can help your mind unwind without you even realizing it. This Technique will reduce stress.
5. Take an Ice-Cube Break to reduce stress naturally
Feeling overwhelmed? Grab an ice cube. Hold it in your hand for 30 seconds and focus on the cold sensation. It pulls you into the present moment, grounding your nervous system and stopping racing thoughts. It’s a simple mindfulness trick that therapists even recommend for panic attacks.
6. Rearrange Your Room
Environmental psychology says your surroundings affect your mental state. When life feels chaotic, reorganizing your room can subconsciously help you regain control. Move a few things around, change your bed direction, or add a plant. Tiny shifts can have a big emotional payoff.
7. Try the “Silly Walk”
This one comes straight from Monty Python’s comedy sketch — and it actually works. Walking in a silly or exaggerated way boosts mood by making your brain associate movement with laughter. Even a 30-second goofy walk in your room can reduce tension instantly.
8. Tap on Your Forehead (EFT Technique)
Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) — also known as “tapping therapy” — involves gently tapping specific points on your face and body.
Clinical trials show EFT can lower cortisol by up to 43%.
9. Eat Something Crunchy
Chewing crunchy foods like carrots, apples, or popcorn can provide sensory feedback that distracts the brain from anxious thoughts.
It activates your parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) system — similar to chewing gum but more satisfying.
10. Try the “Cold Water Trick” to reduce stress
Dipping your face in cold water for 10–15 seconds triggers the mammalian dive reflex — a natural calming mechanism.
This reflex slows down your heart rate and activates your vagus nerve, instantly reducing panic and stress.
