Stress is a common occurrence and is almost unavoidable. For me, the closer tax season gets the more stressed out I become. But I had to stop and think - what good does worry about something really do? Or, more importantly, what harm can it do?
Stress is a natural human response and was designed for us to go into a flight or fight mood when facing danger. Nowadays we are not getting chased by lions, but we are still having the same responses. The big difference is that instead of it lasting a few minutes, we carry it with us for weeks or even years.
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on our bodies - from headaches to digestion trouble. But have you ever stopped to think about the effect it could have on your life? When I sit and worry about something, it will only make the problem worse. But when I stop and clear my mind, I am able to start shifting things and am able to solve my problems. I wanted to share some of the techniques I use when I am in over my head.
Stop to Breathe - At the first sign of stress I stop my train of thought, usually straight up panic, and take a slow deep breath. Not the kind of breath that lifts up your shoulders, but rather one that comes from your diaphragm. Just as if I was in yoga (or dying on the mega) I breathe in from my nose and out from my mouth.
Meditation - If I am not in the car, I light a candle and close my eyes and just quiet my mind. Even if it is just for a few minutes, this allows me to get out of my head and listen to my body. When I am stressed out I hold all my tension in my shoulders and it becomes very painful. When I can release the tension I am able to relax.
Talk it out - I have a few people that I go to that will just listen to me. Sometimes when I am able to vent and talk it all out I can come up with a solution that I had never thought of or see the issue in a different light.
Go outside - Nature is amazing and it is even better when it isn't-1° out. So especially in the warmer months I take advantage of it and walk outside. A simple change of scenery will help shift your mind pattern, and you also get the extra bonus of fresh air and exercise. (I do not recommend walking with a puppy)
Music - The dancer inside of me needs music 24/7, but when I am stressed out and need to focus without having my heart rate increase I play soft soothing music to help set the tone. When I simply need to get my mind off something, I go to my Calm-Down playlist on Spotify.
Unplugging - Turn off all devices! Phones, iPads, computers and T.V.s, all devices should be turned off unless you are just using them to listen to music.
Open a book or play with a dog or child that isn't whining. Have a moment that isn't reminding you of a looming deadline or an unpaid bill. You will get back to it once you are in a better frame of mind. We all have issues and problems that we need to solve but there is a better way to approach it. Let me know about your techniques and tips that help you out when you are stressed in the comments section below.