April Is Stress Awareness Month — Here Are Helpful Products Our Editors Swear By

Before you label this stress ball as the most obvious kind of stress-reliever, you’ll want to try it firsthand. Its squishy, gel-like center makes it practically addicting. You can pinch, prod, pull, and squeeze to your heart’s content without it losing its original shape. Psst…if you’re looking for more stress-alleviating toys that’ll have you reaching for your phone less, check out our other faves from the brand. ($7.95, SPEKS)

This dream machine will play science-backed sleep sounds like dreamscapes, nature-inspired scenes, and sleep stories, accompanied by a moody light to help you wind down. It also locks into your circadian rhythm for an easier, non-invasive wake-up. One of our night owl editors credits this with helping her wake up in the morning with less grogginess. ($199.99, Hatch)

Any massage gun you can throw in your purse is a win in our books. This mini version of the famous TheraGun comes with three foam attachments to help target your specific trigger points. Its three built-in speeds work to alleviate muscle aches, pains, soothe tightness, and improve recovery after a rigorous workout. Happy thumping. ($195, Amazon)

Ditch the sticky notes for this spiral-bound, undated calendar. It has 52 pages of aesthetically pleasing blank spaces to help keep all your notes and to-do lists in one place. Our fave part? The pop-out stand that takes up minimal desk space and keeps your lists in view at all times. ($22, Rifle Paper Co.)

Don’t be surprised if you start canceling plans to spend a night in with this colorful, easy kit. It comes with an  outlined canvas, a set of five brushes, and all the acrylic paint you’ll need to fill it out. You also get a printed example to help guide you. For the most soothing vibes we recommend “Beach Butterfly,” “Cakes,” or “Peach Street” designs, but all eight options are incredibly fun. You’ll want to hang yours when you’re done. ($50, Ban.do)

There’s a reason why hotel spas like the Four Seasons and Canyon Ranch use this relaxing lavender scent. It’s combined with eucalyptus oil, plus a touch of mint that doubles as a nasal decongestant so you can take deeper, calming breaths. For more shower products that will set the ultimate steam room vibes, check out one editor’s round-up. ($29.95, Amazon) 

This hardback journal includes five months’ worth of thoughtful daily prompts, plus sections for monthly reflections for you to fill out at your own pace. We also love the inspiring mottos and affirmations sprinkled throughout. Special shoutout to its gorgeous, simplistic cover you won’t mind leaving out for the world to see. ($35, Papier) 

Get in ladies, we’re upgrading our migraine relief products. This cap gives you comprehensive relief, thanks to its full-coverage design that wraps around your head and offers gentle compression. It’s filled with a cooling gel that molds to your face, so it’ll feel comfortable. Just pop it into the provided freezer bag and freeze for two hours. ($29.95, Amazon) 

This candle of the month club’s soothing seasonal scents come in minimalistic packaging that’ll add a zen-like feel to your space. Their scents vary month to month, but if you find one you’re obsessed with, you can also shop à la carte on their site. ($35, Brooklyn Candle Studio) 

Everyone’s favorite “Wreck This Journal” is back in full, eye-catching color 10 years after its initial release. If you’re unfamiliar with this concept, it’s a journal that’s meant to be, well, absolutely destroyed. Each page invites you to use your imagination and various materials (like saliva, dirt, or unexplored emotions) to help you wreck with color. It’s the perfect activity for when you need to unwind but don’t feel like journaling in the traditional sense — or for releasing some pent-up anger in a productive way. ($9.59, Amazon)

This one’s a no-brainer (literally), according to our editor. This sleep supplement combines three types of melatonin and L-Theanine to help you fall asleep faster, and stay that way throughout the night. It’s also great for supporting healthy brain function, cognitive aging, and feelings of calm. Pro tip: Combine one serving with cherry juice and top it off with your favorite sparkling water for a PM mocktail that’ll put you right to sleep. ($42, Moon Juice)

If a caffeine habit is messing with your anxiety or sleep habits, consider replacing your afternoon latte with a cup of calming tea. With this subscription, you’ll get two types of premium, single-origin or blended teas (about 30+ cups’ worth) delivered to your doorstep each month. You’ll also receive an informational, frame-worthy postcard from their featured country of the month, along with steeping tips and tasting notes. The best part? They’ll ship for free. ($55+, Atlas Tea Club)

It’s like takeout, only better. This delivery service offers a weekly rotating menu of over 35 chef-curated meals. Each plan is fully customizable, with options like keto, vegan/vegetarian, protein-centric, “flexitarian,” or chef’s choice. Still not convinced? One of our editors has been using Factor for over two years and still loves it. ($80.94+, Factor)

Leave it to this kit. You’ll get research-inspired calming activities and seven therapist-curated wellness products like eye masks, face masks, activity journals, bath salts, CBD balms, and more. Choose between 1-, 3-, 6-, or 12-month subscriptions, and cancel or skip anytime. PS: these also make great gifts, in case you needed one less thing to worry about. ($34.99+, Cratejoy)