Thank you to Ubisoft for sponsoring this post. Please visit Amazon.com to get your own copy of Far Cry 3, today’s Gold Box Deal of the Day! I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective. All opinions are my own.

Stress is a major pain in the bedonkadonk, right? It sneaks up on you, and attacks when you’re already overwhelmed. I used to think I had a ton of stress when I worked as a Regional Manager…and then I had children. Now, as a work at home mom responsible for a 4 year old and a 2 year old, neither of whom understand consequences, and make their own rules, I realize I’d never experienced stress before.

Since my gym membership has expired, and there are only a few hours when childcare is available, I’ve had to create ways to reduce my stress from home. I tried walking outside and screaming at the top of my lungs – but the neighbors got concerned, and it only encouraged the kids to scream too. Then I found a solution, my secret weapon: our Xbox 360 system.

Playing video games has been a great outlet for me to reduce my stress and become more active! I can break out my best and worst dance moves, ride the rapids, work out with a trainer, outrace strangers around the world, or take out unsuspecting enemies, all while saving the day. I’m having fun while I burn calories and work off aggression, and I don’t even have to change out of my pajamas.

Of course, I’m glad none of my opponents can see me as I shake my booty, yell at my enemies to “Take that you moron”, or scream at my allies to provide cover. When its been a long day and the kids are in bed, my hubby and I like to pop in a game and challenge each other to a little friendly competition. Since we’re both extremely competitive, its intense at times, but still a pleasant distraction from our problems in the “real world.”

So, the next time you’re having a bad day and need to decompress, grab your controller and show your Xbox who’s boss! If you’re looking for new games to add to your library, Far Cry 3 is Amazon’s Gold Box Deal of the Day, on sale for $34.99. (that’s 42% off)