Inspiration for Managing Stress

Let’s face it - we’ve all been there. Stress happens and some experience it more frequently than others. It can stem from a variety of sources - an email from a co worker, getting cut off in traffic, running late - there are a million stress triggers in just one day! The difference is how you handle it.

If you feel chronically overwhelmed, try shifting your perspective. Rather than seeing stress as an attacker take everything in stride. Try these tricks to help you get out from under stress’s grip:

Take Charge. Sometimes we all just get too busy and end up feeling overwhelmed from the workload. If you have a busy schedule ahead of you, try making a list of projects that you need to get done and clear off the tasks you know that you can accomplish quickly. Once you start checking off those accomplishments, you’ll begin feeling more in control and your stress level will diminish. Try to schedule daily chores so that you can attack the most difficult tasks when your energy level is at its highest. Take a Time Out. We can’t control everything, of course, and there are stressors right around the corner. But when you interrupt stressful moments with calm ones, you can lessen the impact of stress and feel more ready to take on the challenge! So, a few minutes to regroup while working on those deadlines at work. Also, try getting your housework done during the week so you find yourself enjoying the weekends more and start Monday fresh. Friend Time. If you find yourself feeling stressed, try reaching out to your friends. Venting to your friends will help you relax and can help take some of the weight off your shoulders. They may even be able to offer a helpful perspective on your situation. Sometimes it’s good to get another opinion when you find yourself stressed to the max. Diet and Exercise, of course! When you’re going through a tough time, your mind tries to send you on the prowl for ever-so-fattening comfort foods. Try to fight those cravings and east a small, low-carb, low-fat meal instead. Exercise releases endorphins, and endorphins make you happy! Also, it’s always a better idea to fight those stressors at the gym instead of taking it out on your significant other. Mindful Relaxation. Meditation is a great way to achieve a level of relaxation that quiets the overactive mind. Mindfulness teaches you how to observe your thoughts and feelings neutrally – without feelings of positivity or negativity – for a clearer outlook. There are a variety of different techniques including yoga, meditation and simple relaxation exercises. Even something as simple as a massage can help.

Stress is no good - it produces headaches, short tempers, and high blood pressure. Take some time to figure out what your stress triggers are and re-work your routine today!