There is a complex relationship between stress level and online games. While we reach out to digital games for a little relaxation, it often ends up stressing us more. Ah, one of those greatest ironies of life!
But there is a solution to this one. No, you don’t have to give up online games altogether. You just have to be a little mindful while playing them. You have to allow yourself enjoy the game and not stress over it.
So, here’s our take on how to reduce stress level while playing online games:
Find the Right Game:
The first thing to reduce gaming stress is to find the right game. The right game is the one that keeps you at the edge of your expertise. Technically, it’s called the zone of proximal development. It’s a place where you constantly encounter challenges which you are able to overcome with your level of expertise.
So, you need to find the game which is right for your expertise. It must be something which is neither too easy nor too hard; and which makes you feel you are learning along the way of conquering each level. It will give you a sense of achievement which will help reduce your stress.
Learn the Tactics to Goal Setting:
The task of goal setting is as important in online games as it is in real life. So, it’s very important that you learn the tactics for both.
The main aim should be to set smaller, healthier goals. Setting small goals will make it easy to achieve which will leave you feeling relaxed and satisfied.
Also, it will prevent you from making completion your goal. It will reduce your gaming anxiety as you won’t stress much over failing to finish it.
Refocus Your Energy:
It’s healthier to refocus your energy towards something else when you seem to be a little stressed. Doing something calming before and after playing an online game can do the work of stress reliever.
Listening to music, exercising or simply focusing on your breathe will do the magic. You can even try writing a blog about gaming. Writing is known to be good for reducing stress. Plus, it can give you a chance to connect with the gaming community and share your experiences with them.
And if you need a little help with blogging, Rex Originals will do that for you!
Know the Gamer You Are:
It’s also very important for you to know the gamer you are. So, find out whether you are more into a multiplayer gaming or are leaning towards being a solo gamer. Try both before deciding which works best for you. Then, simply go for the one that relaxes you more.
Embrace the Benefits of Gaming:
Last but not the least, embrace the benefits of gaming. Be aware of the benefits of playing an online game and drive your focus towards enjoying them. That will help reduce some of the gaming anxiety.
For instance, if you know that gaming is a meditation technique that helps you to practice mindfulness, you are likely to be more relaxed while playing it. It can also be an expression of your creativity and freedom that can help release dopamine or the “happy hormone”. So, just chill and play on!
If you are still feeling stressed out about online gaming, then try to learn more about what’s causing it and how you can control it effectively.
Conclusion:
Gaming anxiety can affect anyone who takes online games very seriously. It can get even more stressful when your tendency to compete, complete and control takes over. But you have the power to defeat that. All you need to do is follow our tips, strategize, relax and enjoy!