13 Relaxing Anime to Watch If You’re Stressed
If you’re feeling stressed, sometimes the best way to unwind is to sit back, relax, and watch some anime. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the most relaxing anime to watch if you’re stressed. Go on and hit your bong before you settle in.
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Aria the Animation (2005)
If you’re looking for a calm and peaceful anime that will help you relax, “Aria the Animation” is a perfect choice.
Set in the picturesque city of Neo-Venezia, the show follows Akari. Her humble goal is to be part of a group of gondoliers who navigate the city’s canals and help their passengers find inner peace.
With beautiful animation and a soothing soundtrack, “Aria the Animation” is the perfect way to unwind after a long day.
Flying Witch (2016)
If you’re a fan of slice-of-life anime, “Flying Witch” is a must-watch. The show follows a young witch named Makoto as she moves to the countryside to live with her relatives and learn more about witchcraft.
Despite being rooted in magic, this show is as slow-paced and gentle as they come. This makes it the perfect antidote to stress.
The Helpful Fox Senko-San (2019)
Nakano leads an uneventful life. His job keeps him busy, but certainly not happy. To aid him, the spirit world sends him a young child with fox ears.
Several viewers have claimed this show “cured their sadness.” We can’t vouch for that claim, but we can certainly vouch for this anime being a real stress-buster.
Yuru Camp (2018)
“Camping is fun!” That’s the motto of “Yuru Camp,” an anime about a group of high school girls who love to go camping. Owing both to its tone and its setting, this is a real gem among relaxing anime to watch if you’re stressed.
Natsume’s Book of Friends (2008)
“Natsume’s Book of Friends” is a heartwarming anime about a teenage boy named Natsume who can see spirits. With the help of his cat-like companion, Nyanko-sensei, Natsume sets out to free the spirits from the contracts they made with his grandmother and find peace.
Beautiful animation and touching stories blend seamlessly in this must-watch anime for anyone looking for a little bit of warmth and comfort.
K-On! (2009)
If you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted, and criminally underrated anime that will put a smile on your face, “K-On!” is a perfect choice.
The show follows a group of high school girls who form a band and embark on a musical journey together. With its catchy music and adorable characters, “K-On!” is the perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling down.
Barakamon (2014)
“Barakamon” is a charming anime about a young calligrapher named Seishuu who moves to a small island to find inspiration. With its gorgeous animation and gentle humor, “Barakamon” is the perfect relaxing anime to watch if you’re stressed or anxious.
Non Non Biyori (2013)
If you’re a fan of slice-of-life anime, “Non Non Biyori” is a must-watch. Set in the idyllic countryside, the show follows a group of young girls as they navigate life in a small town.
With its gorgeous scenery and lovable characters, “Non Non Biyori” is the perfect way to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Haikyuu!! (2014)
You might find that while heartwarming, most of these anime tend to be stories where not too much happens. They’re designed to calm the soul. But sometimes what one needs is to reignite the fire within.
“Haikyuu!!” is a sports anime about a high school volleyball team that’s determined to win the national championship. With its high-energy matches, lovable characters, and inspiring story, “Haikyuu!!” is the perfect anime to watch if you’re feeling unmotivated or uninspired.
Chihayafuru (2011)
If you like the idea of “Haikyuu!!” but find it a little too high-octane, you’ll probably enjoy “Chihayafuru.”
The anime is set around a traditional Japanese card game, karuta. It is highly competitive, difficult to get into, and dwindling in popularity. But the tomboyish Chihaya is game, especially after prodigy Arata ropes her into the competitive side of it.
Outside of its gentle approach to a competitive sport, Chihayafuru is also a wonderful example of an anime that blends the best of genres.
School Babysitters (2018)
Two recently orphaned brothers are offered boarding and tuition to a prestigious academy on one condition: the elder one must work at the academy’s daycare center.
The show is centered on the hijinks associated with babysitting young children. Its gentle, soft tone and approach to comedy offer an extremely joyful experience.
Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions (2012)
We’ve all had our embarrassing teen phase where we were convinced we were supernatural beings and our fairy godmother would show up and awaken our powers and send us on a quest to save the world. Haven’t we?
In “Chunibyo,” Yuta attempts to shake off his past grandiose delusions and have a normal school life. But when he meets a girl who shares his fanciful dreams, they decide instead to form a club.
This genre-blending anime is an adorable, light watch. Perfect for a cozy night in, when you’re looking to simply unwind.
Snow White with the Red Hair (2015)
Perhaps the most stressful aspect of modern life is the focus on proving our value. It can feel rather draining, especially when you’d much rather bide your time gently enjoying the pleasure of your unique passions.
This anime is, essentially, that feeling distilled into a gorgeously scenic visual treat. It follows Shirayuki, a young girl whose red hair draws the attention of the prince. She escapes to the neighboring city, and while there, pursues her love for botany.
There’s no flashy action sequence or angsty romance. Just a simple story of a girl doing what she loves.
It’s Been a Hard Day’s Night
Let’s face it, it’s been a rough few years. But if there’s one thing we can all count on to get us through it all, it’s a good toke and a relaxing anime to destress with. So go on and enjoy a good binge. You’ve earned it.
