Coping with Stress

Coping with Stress – Diversion Techniques

Diversion activities include such activities as engaging in a hobby, taking a nap, watching
T.V., listening to music, going out to a movie, etc. It is important to realize that these
activities don’t address the stress directly but divert your attention for awhile.

 Music 

Medical research reveals that music can affect a person’s physiological state,
inducing excitement or relaxation. Listening to favourite music relives stress by:
• Providing a predictable, and “secure” environment
• Inducing feelings of well being
• Decreasing physical responses, such as heart rate and respiration
• Inducing and maintaining relaxation once it occurs
• Bringing order to chaotic situations
• Providing a break from frenetic activity.

Hobbies 

Hobbies constitute another diversion technique for an individual or overcome
pent-up frustrations stress, boredom or monotony. One can engage oneself in varied
hobbies depending on one’s interests. Reading, writing and collecting objects such as
coins, stamps etc. help a person relax and get de-stressed. According to Harris Interactive
the list of the most popular hobbies and leisure activities in descending order are as
follows (Source: Harris Interactive Inc: The Harris Poll):

• TV watching
• Spending time with family/kids
• Fishing
• Gardening
• Swimming
• Computer activities
• Going to movies
• Walking
• Golf
• Exercise (aerobics, weights)
• Playing team sports
• Socializing with friends/neighbors
• Renting movies
• Traveling
• Listening to music
• Shopping
• Crafts (unspecified)
• Camping
• Church/church activities
• Boating
• Hunting
• Relaxing
• Sewing/crocheting
• Bicycling
• Watching sporting events
• Playing music
• Sleeping
• Beach/Sun tanning
• Bowling
• Cooking
• Entertaining
• Working on cars
• Animals/pets/dogs
• Eating out
• Painting
• Running
• Woodworking
• Hiking