Unstress

Resource library

A small, hand-picked shelf of things that can help you understand and ease stress — gentle reading and practical tools. Nothing here is required, and none of it is a substitute for professional care.

A book being on this shelf means I got something out of it, not that I agree with all of it. These authors disagree with each other in places, and I disagree with parts of each of them. Nothing here is a statement of my beliefs, and none of it is advice for your situation — take what is useful to you and leave the rest.

Understanding stress & burnout

Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers — Robert Sapolsky

A clear, humane explanation of what stress does in the body, and why chronic stress is different from acute stress.

Self-Compassion — Kristin Neff

On being kinder to yourself under pressure, which research links to better recovery.

HjerneRo — Martin Riis Kastrup & Mads Hyldig

Four simple tools from Danish psychologists for a head that will not switch off. The one book on this shelf written in Danish.

Danish

Sleep & recovery

NHS — Every Mind Matters: sleep

Free, practical, evidence-based tips for winding down and sleeping better when stressed.

Apps & tools I find helpful

Brain.fm — focus & calm music

Functional music I personally use to focus or settle down. Not for everyone, but it helps me.

Where to next?

Check in

Stress checkReflect on your recent life-change load.Daily check-inLog the day, look back, set reminders.TrendsSee the pattern across your check-ins.

Toolkit

ToolkitFind what helps, by what is going on right now.MapSee which things you are carrying, and what each responds to.

Relief

BreatheA paced breathing exercise to settle down.GroundingCome back to the present with your senses.

Everyday

GratitudeNotice a few good things, daily.Thinking timePark worries for one set time a day.One thingSettle, name one demand, choose, and take one step.DirectionReconnect with what you want — one small step.HabitsSmall everyday swaps that ease stress.Sleep resetA short wind-down for tonight.

About

AboutWhy I built this — and how to support it.

If you feel at risk of harming yourself or someone else, or if you feel unable to stay safe, contact emergency services or a local crisis line immediately.

In an immediate emergency — if you or someone else is in danger — call your local emergency number now (112 in the EU, 911 in the US, 999 in the UK).