Stress-Shed Self Care

Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax. – Mark Black

This is a constant learning process for me, but I’ll share what has been helpful in my own turning away from stress.

• Schedule down time when you’re feeling busy. Productivity is not always the answer.
• Recognize your body’s indicators of stress, and treat yourself to more relaxing time and personal passes.
• Exercise at the gym (push it to the limit as you picture stressful situations that cause fight-or-flight reactions).
• Go into nature and walk, play in a river, sit around, eat a snack, etc.
• Help other people who are stressed. It can be good for both of you, or you could try asking a friend if they can help you.
• Set boundaries with stressful people. If they’re being mean or emotional, it could just be they’re unhappy and it might not be your fault. It is hard to fear someone when you can feel pity for them.
• Take a bath with Epson salts and essential oils. Light a candle, read a book, or just listen to massage music and rest.
• Get a massage, do your nails, etc. This could be a special treat when your body is telling you it needs some TLC.
• Had a very stressful day and not motivated to cook? Pick up a meal at a store or treat yourself to a restaurant!
• Sleep is great. If you’re always short on it, get into an earlier bedtime routine so you can “sleep in” more in the morning.
• Move slowly – don’t rush. People can be demanding, but it’s your heartrate that spikes when you’re running on adrenaline at work.
• Try breathing exercises or medication. Honestly, just laying on an exercise mat for 10 minutes after work or until you feel like getting up is fabulous.
• Pray about what’s been on your mind and hand off those burdens. You can also journal your concerns and your blessings. If you had to chose between faith and endless anxiety, it’s better to go for faith and to pray for peace, joy, and the wisdom you need to overcome. Everyday has enough worry on its own.
• Dance~! Do it down the street, do it in the shower, or just dance you’re cooking in the kitchen.
• Make a plan for a future event to look forward to. Small events are also fine, it just gives you a positive mindset after dealing with work.
• Try a walk-and-talk with a friend on the phone. Meeting in person is also great!
• Have something to do but you miss human beings? Try antisocially socializing at a café! You never know who you may strike up a conversation with, but you’ll be happy even if you just keep your face in a book.