How to Take Charge of the Stress in Your life Tip #1 (261 hits)
Stress is very pervasive in our society. Its impact affects us emotionally, spiritually, physically, and even mentally. Stress, if uncontrolled or unmanaged, can contribute to the onset of suicides, domestic violence, and serious diseases such as heart problems, strokes, mental breakdowns, and a host of other maladies.
There are many ways to cope with stress. However, it is important to recognize what is causing you stress. The first step in this process is to take an honest evaluation of the things that are stressful to you. This helps you monitor your responses and reactions to those situations. It gives you the ultimate control for you to take charge of your stress.
Taking a proactive approach to stress is critical. The first tip in the series of Stress R.E.L.I.E.F. is simply rest.
1. R Rest from mental, emotional, and physical work. Take time during the day to relax and be re-energized. Take at least 15 minutes each day to regroup and relax. Though some days are more hectic than others, dont be tempted to get so engulfed that you lose sight of the main focus. Become your own life coach and develop some techniques to avoid the temptation of bringing the situation into your personal space. Become more objective by distancing yourself emotionally from the problem or situation.
At the same time, become aware of your trigger points those things that set you off or are upsetting to you. By doing so, it becomes easier for you to recognize when your stress is building so you can intercede with some positive reinforcements.
As I was writing this article, I took a break to talk to Verizon FIOS about a ridiculous huge bill I received. After 1 hour of trying to resolve the issue, I could feel the stress rising. The delays, holding for long periods, and occasional disconnects only added to the stress. My voice tone changed and I recognized that my pitch was high. Two and a half hours later, the transaction was completed and I was left with a headache. I decided to take my own advice; I changed my scenery. I went outside and did something that was restful and relaxing at the same time. I paused for quite a while admiring my garden and even pulled out a few weeds. I'm happy to report that the headache and stressful feeling were gone. I felt more at ease.
Rest is a great proactive approach. During your rest periods take time to appreciate yourself and who you really are. Learn to love yourself in a healthy and wholesome manner and always live by your values.
Stay tuned for Tip #2.
Quote: Take rest; a field that has rested gives a bountiful crop. ~Ovid
I love this Sister Thorpe! I've been utilizing tip #1 for years and my husband can't understand it, because he's a work-a-holic who believes one should work all they can while they can before getting old. I laugh at him. I often tell him that people who work all they can usually die right after they stop working and can't enjoy the fruits of their labor. This will not be my husband's portion, though!
Because I work in the medical field where I am trusted with the lives of others, I don't allow myself to be stressed to the point that I'm not functional. I take breaks and rest my mind, spirit, and body often. Life is too short and we have to do what we can to revitalize ourselves. For everyone rest and sleep is essential to good mental and physical health. Thanks again for the great blog and I'm looking forward to tip #2.
P.S. Did I mention that many of the patients that I see have had heart problems brought on by a combination of things with one of them being too much stress?
Thursday, September 16th 2010 at 2:13PM
Jen Fad
