These habits can help you stress less and be happier, and they all take less than 10 minutes.

We all are very familiar with stress and the impact it can have on our mood.

In some cases, it can be unavoidable.

Young woman sitting in the lotus pose outside on her patio

Getty Images / Goodboy Picture Company

Some stress can even come from health-promoting behaviors, like a hard workout or taking on a new challenge.

When stress inevitably sneaks up on us, it’s important to have strategies to keep it in check.

Here are the cheapest ways to relieve stress and be happier.

Walking

There are so many reasons to love walking.

For some extra relaxation, consider leaving your phone at home and taking this time to unplug.

Taking some time away from screens has been proven to help ease stress.

Meditation

Swap out 10 minutes of morning TV or music for a mindful meditation.

Meditation can decrease stress, improve focus and even lower your blood pressure.

you’ve got the option to do a meditation on your own or through an app likeMyLife.

Breathing is free, easy and can help relieve stress in as little as one minute.

Plus, you’re free to do it anywhere you are.

Bottom Line

In some ways, stress is inevitable.

As a bonus, they are basically cost-free.

Get out for a walk, practice a meditation and try some deep-breathing today to feel the benefits.