When you start to feel overwhelmed, try taking a preventive approach to working through your stress rather than drowning in it.
- Take breaks: Break up a task by walking away & relaxing for a few minutes.
- Socialize: Spend time with friends and family; being around people is a good distraction.
- Exercise: Any kind of physical activity is great for your brain and your body.
- Start a journal or diary: Pour your heart out; your diary won't judge you.
- Prayer: Praying puts you in touch with a higher power and can be a source of support and strength.
- Breathing exercises: Some people remember it like this—"good air" in through the nose, "bad air" out through the mouth.
- Listen to music: It's a good way to work through your feelings and clear your mind.
- Hobbies: Creative outlets and interests help you to express yourself and take your mind off worries.
- Visual imagery: Identify your "happy place" and imagine yourself there.
- Meditation: Deep meditation will change your heart rate, your breathing, and even your brain chemistry--it helps you calm down.
- Pet therapy: Animals can be really good stress-busters.
- Retail therapy/shopping: Go to the mall or shop on-line—you don't even have to buy anything.
- Aromatherapy: An air freshener or scented candle can help create a calm and positive atmosphere.
- Laughter: Find something that makes you laugh, or at least smile!
“Stress is not what happens to us. It’s our response to what happens. And response is something we can choose.”
-Maureen Killoran
Managing stress can be challenging. If it all becomes too much for you, let us know, we will help you find a way to get back on track.