Stress Management Basics and Tips

Hello Everyone,

I hope I am not repeating myself on various topics. I am all about enriching our lives and finding ways to recognize, cope, promote, and encourage strategies for remaining resilient amidst the relentless demands of life, work, unending personal responsibilities and unexpected setbacks. If stress seems to be causing such problems for you, it's a good idea to learn how to reduce these symptoms before they get worse.

Stress is a normal part of life that we can't escape and we are all well acquainted with stress. Maybe you are late for an appointment, pushing to meet a deadline, putting off reading the mail or pile of bills, or stuck in the wrong line at the bank or grocery store, it will all work out.

Sometimes we encounter a greater degree of stress, when we have to cope with emotionally fraught events like divorce, the loss of a job, chronic illness, or the death of someone dear to us. Believe it or not stress accompanies even the happiest occasions in life, like getting married or having a baby.

We experience stress as physical and emotional tension, and each of us experiences stress differently. Too much tension can be unhealthy, resulting in everything from occasional tension headaches to high blood pressure and heart disease. These symptoms are the body's way of letting us know that something needs to change.

Of course, it's impossible to eliminate stress from our lives completely. But we can find better ways to deal with it. These techniques can help minimize stress and make it more manageable:

* Planning for major changes ( I know our body and mind don't always cooperate)
* Eliminating wasted time
* Setting attainable short- and long-term goals
* Allowing yourself time to adapt to change
* Making good nutrition and regular exercise part of your daily routine

People with chronic illnesses have to find ways to deal with unexpected changes and new demands. I know that planning doesn't always work because our mind and body doesn't always want to cooperate! Therefore, it is a good idea to have some sort of release strategies that work for you. I believe in repeating a phrase or quote to assist me with relaxing. A hot bath is very soothing, listening to music, reading, or taking advantage of quiet time can make a big difference. Just know that you are in control of your emotions and can work at reducing the physical and emotional effects of stress in your life.


Mental Strategies: Start with getting your emotions under control. Start thinking about ways to avoid stressful situations. Try to find a good time to shop or bank, during odd hours and not on a payday! What a mistake. I went to the grocery store on the 15th, bad idea. If you need assistance completing your tasks, don't be afraid to ask. Gratitude, admiration, and generously go a long way. Be honest and express your appreciation, there are many ways to reciprocate.

Try writing everything down. I am a big advocate of writing things down. I know it takes a bit of energy and time however, the end result is great. My memory isn't what it used to be, so what? I am still enjoying life. Stimulate your brain and broaden your horizons by investing time on hobbies and even continued education. I know that sounds crazy, but taking a class in something that interest you will keep you mentally charged. Keeping a good sense of humor is a great stress reliever.

Physical Strategies: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes. I have had to switch to very light weight clothes, shoes, purses. I have even changed the pots and pans I use. Meditate, try simple yoga moves, gentle stretches, and posture scans. Move, don't sit or stand for long periods of time. Rotate your head, shoulders, arms, and legs. Just be silly and wiggle around. It releases tensions, circulates the blood and ultimately improves your health.

Drink plenty of water, increase your intake of fruit, vegetables, and grains.

Did you know that physical contact with the people you care about helps to relieve stress? Soft hugs, pats on the shoulder, and if your lucky enough a massage goes a long way. A good diet, movement, and personal contact are simple ways to handle your stress.

Planning simplifies my life, making short and long-term realistic goals and forgiving myself for missing a planned task, chore, or event relieves my stress. Don't overdo, keep it simple.

The first step in dealing with stress is acceptance. Keeping a sense of humor, adapting to change, learning how to cope, and focusing on the positive promotes our overall health and well-being.

I hope and pray you have a fatigue and pain free day and continue to focus on the positive aspects of your life.