Coping with Stress and Anxiety in a Busy World
As adults we all encounter stress and anxiety; either at the work place or at home, sometimes both. We feel stress emotionally and physically, weighing us down. Anxiety will hit you suddenly and at times it comes in waves.
There are a lot of ways to cope and manage stress and anxiety. Sometimes we just need to disconnect ourselves from the stressors, even for a moment. Here are a few ways that can be done, some don’t even require you to leave your office.
Stand up – STRETCH your legs, back, arms and neck. Physical activity to get the blood flowing.
Take slow deep breaths for at least 3 minutes – In through your nose and out through your mouth.
Take a walk outside. Focus on nature or environmental sounds.
Clean or organize your work space or a space at home. This will give you a sense peace and control as well as accomplishing something.
Be assertive – it’s okay to say no to that extra project if need be.
Set boundaries – at home and work. If people know where that line is then they will be less likely to cross it.
Write a list of goals – short term goals also help create the feeling of achieving a task.
Read a book or short story – perhaps a subject that you thoroughly enjoy.
As always you should invest in healthy changes/habits in yourself. By doing this you will create a better, stronger you. Here are 5 ways to start the day:
Start with getting a good night’s rest. At least 7 – 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep. Put the phone down and turn off the TV.
Drink plenty of water – Start the morning off with a glass of water and be sure to drink though out the day.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine both of which rob your body of essential hydration which keep the muscles moving and the mind clear.
Eat a well-balanced diet and remember to not skip meals. Food gives us our energy physically and mentally. Poor diet leads to not only health issues but sleep loss and lack of energy. Avoid surgery food that lead to a quick high and a long-lasting low.
Exercise daily – You not only improve your health you will also improve your mood/mental health. Exercising stimulates different chemicals in your brain that leave you feeling more relaxed and happier.
Lastly, don’t forget to schedule time for yourself in your busy life. Taking this time to spend on you will allow you to reboot and focus on the positive. Re-kindle an interest in an old hobby or start a new one. As long as it allows you relax and re-energize your mind and body.
If you are feeling extra stressed lately, anxiety therapy can help you find management techniques to improve things. Contact me soon to get you on a path that is more stress-free.
