According to a 2021 report by Statistics Canada, 73% of working Canadians aged 20–64 experience stress occasionally, while one-third of respondents aged 35–54 reported feeling highly stressed on a regular basis. Deadlines at work, personal life challenges, and financial difficulties are just a few reasons why Calgarians experience stress.
While mild stress can be a good motivator, excessive stress leads to mental and physical exhaustion and, in some cases, serious mental health disorders. The best way to alleviate stress is to resolve the problem causing it. However, this is not always feasible. Here are several proven methods to help Calgarians relax and regain peace of mind, as shared on calgarynka.
Escape Urban Hustle in Parks
A study by Australia’s University of Queensland revealed that a “dose of nature” is essential for mental health. Researchers recommend spending at least 30 minutes per week walking in a park or forest. Nature reduces blood pressure, slows heart rates, relaxes muscles, and decreases stress hormones.
Calgarians are fortunate to have access to several parks. For example, Sandy Beach Park offers serene walks along the Elbow River. With tree-lined paths and a beach, visitors can forget they are in the heart of the city. The park provides a peaceful escape year-round.
Another great option is North Glenmore Park, where you can stroll to Glenmore Reservoir, a man-made lake surrounded by trails, greenery, and trees. Whether you want to bike, run, picnic, canoe, or simply watch the clouds, the reservoir is perfect for taking a break from negative thoughts.
Nose Hill Park, one of the largest parks in North America, is another must-visit. This natural sanctuary is ideal for morning jogs, evening walks, or family outings. It captivates visitors with its rolling hills, valleys, and diverse flora and fauna.
Exercise: The Ultimate Stress Reliever
Scientific research has long shown that exercise positively impacts mental health. Physical activity releases endorphins—chemicals with pain-relieving and mood-boosting effects—and improves sleep. Exercise also lowers stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.
Try Bowness Park, where you can paddle on the river in summer or enjoy curling and ice skating in winter. Bowness Park is integral to the lives of Calgarians who seek year-round physical activity. Just 20–30 minutes of exercise daily can help you feel more at ease.
For a more adventurous option, consider rock climbing. With its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Calgary is a top destination for this sport. While climbing is not for everyone, beginners and professionals alike can train at facilities like Calgary Climbing Centre, which offers challenging walls, bouldering routes, and safe climbing spaces.
Team sports can also strengthen mental health, often having an even greater impact than solo activities. Shouldice Park is a fantastic venue for team sports, featuring soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and tennis courts. For parents with young children, the park includes playgrounds.
Furry Friends Instead of Antidepressants
Interacting with animals reduces cortisol levels, which suppress the immune system. This is achieved by increasing oxytocin in the brain—a hormone that promotes satisfaction and reduces anxiety. Oxytocin counteracts the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol, thereby lowering stress.
If you don’t have a pet at home, visit animal-friendly establishments. Regal Cat Cafe, Calgary’s first cat cafe, opened in Kensington in June 2017. Located near the Sunnyside C-Train station, it offers visitors a chance to cuddle with friendly cats and enjoy a natural stress-relief boost.
The Positive Effects of Yoga
Yoga provides an opportunity to step back from daily worries through meditation, which activates brain regions responsible for positive emotions. Regular yoga sessions can reduce stress without causing physical discomfort, making it suitable for everyone, especially those who cannot perform strenuous exercises.
Calgary has numerous yoga studios. The first private studio, The Yoga Studio, was founded in 1996 by Valerie Petrich and David McAmmond. Their mission was to enrich Calgarians’ lives through the art, science, and philosophy of yoga. Most of the instructors at this studio graduated from the Yoga Studio College of Canada. For those who prefer outdoor sessions, Calgary offers plenty of locations for yoga in nature.
Healing Through Art
Art therapy, first recognized for its positive effects on mental health in 1938, became an integral part of medical, psychotherapeutic, and educational practices throughout the 20th century. It allows individuals to express themselves through movements, colors, and other creative outlets, helping them confront internal conflicts, anxiety, and fears.
Art therapy is beneficial for both children and adults. While often associated with visual arts, it encompasses any creative activity that helps express emotions.
Calgarians can explore local arts centres, theatres like Vertigo or Lunchbox, enjoy improv comedy by the Loose Moose Theatre Company, or attend performances by the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra and Opera Company.
For personalized sessions, visit Bloom Art Therapy & Counselling, founded by art therapist Donna Gage, which offers programs for children, youth, and families. Another centre, CRATE, run by art therapist Kristie Herdman, provides individual sessions and workshops for all ages.
For a more social art experience, check out Vin Gogh Paint Sip Studio, Calgary’s first professional studio combining painting and wine tasting. No prior artistic experience is required; the studio provides all materials, artistic guidance, and step-by-step instructions, making the process both relaxing and enjoyable.