Simple Pleasures are one of the best, fastest, and easiest stress management tools! They calm the mind, body and spirit and are easily accessible to most people. Special occasions get a lot of attention; however, most of our lives are lived in the days in between. Learn how to make those days special too by adding simple treats/pleasures throughout the day to look forward to. Here are ten fun and easy ways to relax and indulge in simple pleasures:

1. Wind Chimes – Relaxing sounds like wind chimes are great for enhancing a relaxing atmosphere.

2. Fountains: Creating a calm environment is very important for managing stress and fountains have the added benefit of blocking out unwanted noise.

3. Fish Tanks – Watching the fish glide gently through the water is very relaxing, as long as cleaning them doesn’t stress you out! If so, it is possible to hire a service to do the cleaning for you.

4. Flames (Fireplace, Fire Pit, or Candlelight): Gazing at a flame has a very calming effect on the mind, body, and spirit and adds an air of romance and pampering to any setting.

5. Stress Relief Toys: Learning to laugh more and having fun are important keys to relieving stress. To view a large selection of great stress relief toys, visit: http://www.officeplayground.com/stressreliever.html.

6. Relaxation-Themed Decks of Cards: Self-care (taking care of yourself and treating yourself better) is an important concept in stress management. Amazon.com has a great selection of decks of cards and books on soothing and relaxing topics like meditation, relaxation, inner peace, perfect calm, and self-care, as well as spa treatments.

7. Relaxing Music CD: Listening to relaxing music, a form of music therapy, is especially good while traveling! Caution: relaxing music CDs are fine for this purpose; however, never listen to guided imagery or guided meditation CDs while driving.

8. A Favorite Magazine: Taking time for yourself, slowing down, and flipping through your favorite magazine is one of life’s simple pleasures. Try Real Simple magazine for great ideas to relax, simplify and organize: http://www.realsimple.com.

9. Crossword Puzzles – If you’re feeling stressed, taking your focus off the problem at hand and turning your attention to a crossword puzzle can help you feel more centered and calm.

10. A staycation vacation: When you don’t have time to travel, why not try a staycation vacation? Staying home for a mini vacation can be very relaxing, and it can also save money. Fill your stay with things you enjoy and that relax, pamper and calm you.