Once you've defined
stress
, then you can consider ways for managing stress. You may say ...
"Only manage it, why not eliminate it? "
Stress does serve it's purpose in your life. Reducing, not eliminating stress is your goal. By making this a priority you can reduce your risk of developing chronic stress.
If you haven't already, now is the time that you must....
Identify The Root Causes of Your Stress...
I'm sure it's pretty hard to manage something when you don't know what's causing it. After evaluating myself I found that my stress mainly came from trying to do too much. I wanted to be the perfect wife, mother and employee. I'd set my own expectations too high, and found myself failing at all three.
Some root causes of your stress may be:
- Concerns about your family relationships and issues (children, spouse, in-laws...)
- Concerns about your job (or the lack of one)
- Concerns about your finances
- Pressure from feeling like you don't have enough time to do what needs to get done
- Personal need for perfection
Your own personal list may be longer or shorter. As long as it covers all of your root causes it's fine.
You may not feel that you can do anything to make a big difference. I can tell you from experience that every little bit helps. Just take one step at a time.
Keys to Managing Stress...
Below are some things that you can do to help manage and reduce your stress:
1.)Power of Positive Thinking: Try to focus on the positive instead of the negative in a situation. This can change how you respond to stressors, and help reduce your daily stress. With practice it's a habit that you can form.
2.)Take a " Time Out": Take a few minutes out of the day to focus on something that makes you smile. Listen to music, take a short walk, or sit quietly. As simple as it seems, this makes a big difference in my day.
3.)Plan for the Unexpected: I found a lot of my stress was coming from always feeling rushed. Try planning ahead for things like your commute to work, or trip to the store.
4.) Learn to "Just Say NO": You're not a superhero, so stop trying to carry the load of one. You can't do it all, so make sure to communicate this to those around you by saying no when you have enough on your plate.
5.) Put Your Pride Aside: Ask for the help when you need it. Whether it's watching the kids or finishing a big home or work project, you have to know your limits.
6.) Change is Good: Identify if your stressor is something that can be avoided. Why put yourself through it if you don't have to.
Still having a hard time figuring out what changes you can make to help in managing stress? Try learning from the pros around you.
Talk to a friend, neighbor or co-work you find handles stressful situations with ease....what are their tips and tricks? Ultimately you have to remember that YOU are in control of your stress.
Now that you have learned some keys to managing stress, here are some natural stress relief methods.
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NOTE: The content of this website is for informational purposes only. Consult a physician before attempting any of the natural stress relief options listed.