The World Series is here, and if you’re a Blue Jays fan, your heart rate probably spikes every time the bullpen door swings open. The innings feel longer, the stakes feel higher, and suddenly you’re negotiating with the baseball gods like you’ve got skin in the game.
But here’s the truth: you’re not on the roster. Your job is to enjoy the ride without losing your mind. Already tried the basics? Here are 10 fresh ways to stay grounded when every pitch feels like life or death.
1. Switch to radio for a night
When the World Series tension starts to feel like a pressure cooker, consider turning off the TV and tuning in on the radio instead. There’s something magical about hearing the game described in real time. The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, and the drama unfolding pitch by pitch.
Without the constant replay angles and slow-motion breakdowns, you’ll find the pace feels calmer and more human.
Radio turns the game into a story, not a stress test.
Plus, it’s portable: you can listen while cooking, walking, or even sitting outside. It’s also free and there are no blackouts!
Give your eyes a break and let your imagination paint the picture. You might discover that the World Series feels less overwhelming—and a lot more fun—when you experience it the old-school way.
2. Cook something that takes time
When the World Series has you on edge, head to the kitchen and start a project that demands patience.
Think homemade bread, a simmering soup, or a slow roast. These dishes force you to step away between innings, giving your mind a break from the tension while still keeping you connected to the game.
You can listen on the radio or peek in during commercial breaks, but instead of pacing the floor, you’ll be kneading dough or stirring a pot.
The bonus? By the time the ninth inning rolls around, your home smells like comfort and victory. It’s a sensory reset that turns game night into something cozy and grounding, no matter what the scoreboard says.
3. Make a “Good Vibes” playlist
The World Series is intense, and sometimes you need a soundtrack that reminds you to breathe. Build a playlist filled with songs that calm your nerves or make you smile. Think Mariah Carey for a nostalgic nod to ’93 or Taylor Swift for today’s vibe.
When the tension spikes, hit play during commercial breaks or between innings. Music has a way of resetting your mood and pulling you out of the stress spiral.
And if you don’t feel like curating your own, just tune in to 89.5 The Lake. We’ve got the hits that keep Kenora grounded while the Jays chase glory. Because nothing pairs better with baseball drama than a little rhythm to steady your heartbeat.
4. Text someone who doesn’t care
When the World Series tension feels unbearable, a quick text to a friend who isn’t following the game can be surprisingly grounding. You don’t need a full conversation. Just a simple “Hope you’re having a good night” can pull you out of the bubble for a moment.
It’s a reminder that life exists beyond the bases and the bullpen. Then, get back to the game with a little more perspective and a lot less pressure.
5. Create a “Lucky Object”
When the World Series gets nerve-wracking, give yourself a little superstition to lean on. Grab something random—a mug, a hat, maybe even a stuffed moose from your childhood—and declare it your good-luck charm.
It sounds silly, but rituals like this can calm your brain when the game feels out of control. Hold it during big at-bats, set it on the coffee table like a trophy, or pass it around if you’re watching with family.
It’s a fun way to turn stress into laughter and remind yourself that baseball is supposed to be joyful. Even when your heart’s pounding like a drum in the bottom of the ninth.
6. Narrate the game like a children’s book
“This is George. George likes home runs. George is very brave.”
It sounds ridiculous, but that’s the point. Turning high-stakes drama into a bedtime story adds humour and takes the edge off. Bonus points if you read it out loud in your best storytime voice.
Suddenly, the ninth inning feels less like a heart attack and more like a quirky chapter in your family’s baseball saga.
7. Try the “One-Inning Rule”
Give yourself permission to stress for one inning.
Just one.
After that, you have to laugh, snack, or talk about literally anything else until the next inning starts. It’s a mental reset that keeps you from spiraling through all nine innings.
Think of it as a timeout for your brain, so you can actually enjoy the game instead of living in panic mode.
8. Watch with the sound off for a few minutes
Mute the TV and play your favourite song or just soak in the silence. Without the roar of the crowd and the commentators dissecting every pitch, the game feels calmer. Almost peaceful.
It’s like turning down the volume on your anxiety. When you’re ready, bring the sound back and notice how much lighter you feel.
9. Write down three things you’re grateful for
Yes, even during a World Series nail-biter. Gratitude flips the script on stress. Jot down three things—big or small—that make you smile. Maybe it’s “Springer’s knee held up,” or “I have snacks,” or “Kenora sunsets are unbeatable.”
It’s a quick way to remind yourself that life is good, even if the bullpen is shaky.
10. Plan tomorrow’s breakfast
Seriously. Think about pancakes. Or bacon and eggs. Or that pumpkin spice latte you’ve been meaning to try. It’s a tiny mental trick that pulls you out of the chaos and into something comforting. Because no matter what happens tonight, tomorrow still starts with breakfast.
Go Jays Go!
Want more ways to stay calm when the Jays make your heart race? Join me, Caleb, on 89.5 The Lake, Monday to Friday from 2 to 6 p.m. We’ll talk baseball, play the hits you love, and keep you grounded while the drama unfolds.
Show us your game-day setup! Tag YourKenora.ca on socials and share how you’re watching (or listening) to the World Series. Your photo could be featured here and on the radio!
