There is a well-documented history between being stress free and hanging fun. While stress management game being played can offer a slight degree of stress, knowing it is just a game can reduce the natural stress of competition.
Most counselors recommend against competition when trying to relieve stress, especially when on vacation, but there are a few stress management games that be played without the competitive spirit getting in the way of having fun. One such stress management game is played similar to hangman. Instead of making words, the object is to try to find as many ways of improving your health as possible.
Another stress management game is to have two or more people involved in putting a puzzle together. Alternatively, maybe two puzzles with one table having to provide refreshment or entertainment, such as singing a song, once a predetermined number of pieces have been successfully put together. You can make up the rules, so it can be a lot of fun and provide some stress-free fun since it is the winner performing all the tasks.
Keep Competition To A Minimum
Ideally, a stress management game will have little or no competition, but with human nature being what it is, competition will most likely be present. However, with light-hearted competition, it can evoke friendly stress, boosting everyone’s morale and when the game is over, there are no hard feelings left over from the stress of losing.
The entire idea behind stress relief is to provide an alternate way of thinking that removes negative thoughts and replaces them with a renewed focus on positive energy. For that small group of people who cannot stand to lose at anything, perhaps a stress management game is not a real possibility. Learning to write or draw may be better for those with that type of personality. Some involved in a stress management game have chosen to not keep score, simply play the game, but typically a score is maintained so the losers today can exact revenge tomorrow.
In a stress management game with a friendly competition, where the winners are heartily congratulated by those who did not score the highest point total, stress will be minimal and short lived. Often termed as good stress, it gives a boost of good feelings and being able to be completely focused on the task at hand, followed by relaxation and a times for being with good company.