Did something recently happen that has you stressed, and NOT feeling blessed? Perhaps you felt rejected, you are working too many hours, or there is so much pent up inside your brain and body that you are about to blow? There is a light at the end of the tunnel! If you are someone who is looking to diminish stress quickly due to work and life constraints then follow these steps so you can be YOU again.
Step 1: Do Something New
Often times when we are stressed it is because we are living in a world of our own, engulfed in our own thoughts and worries. You need to get out! Doing something new gives you more confidence because you are learning and growing as an individual. Take a trip for a weekend to someplace you have never been or go to a bookstore and take your time finding a book that will help you hone in on a new craft. How about trying a new recipe, going for a bike ride at a new park, or visiting a nearby small city to “people watch” in order to relax for awhile? Your “something new” doesn’t have to be big and expensive. But, it does have to be about you. It has to be your choice and something that gives you confidence and time to breathe.
Step 2: Exercise
I am sure this is nothing you haven’t heard before. There is a ton of research proving that exercise is a major factor in decreasing stress levels. Physical activity produces endorphins, which act as natural painkillers, relieving stress and anxiety. Please, if you have a habit of making spontaneous exercise choices, do not go and get a gym membership! Take some time to research different physical activities and find the right one for you. You don’t have to run a marathon. Instead, start walking and get on a schedule so you can form a habit. Taking the stairs, walking during lunch, taking a bike ride, or jumping rope are all acceptable ways of getting back in the habit of taking care of YOU! Even the act of stretching allows the body to relax and focus on something other than the daily grind. Take the time to exercise.
Step 3: Write
One of the best ways to relieve stress is to write about the stress you are having. Others are not always around to vent with, and sometimes, you really don’t have the words at that moment anyway. Take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts and feelings, and maybe send them to some close friends so they can see what is inside your mind. This practice leads to great, and very real, conversations about LIFE. You can use a computer, hand write in a journal or on lined paper, or even use a cocktail napkin. I must say, those have been some of my best thought catchers! The point is… get it out and get on with it. You will feel better.
Step 4: Shake It Up
Literally, get a healthy liquid, vitamin shake mix and get some “good” in you. Chances are if you are stressed, you are also in need of some tender loving vitamin care. When we stress we often dehydrate, eat foods we shouldn’t (like chips and ice cream), and consume caffeine and alcohol more than usual. Find your favorite brand of yummy, mine is doTERRA Slim and Sassy with Terra Greens, and refill all the nutrients your body is deprived of when you are stressed. If you have a shake or smoothie at least once a day you can ensure you are getting some nutrients to make you feel better during those rough patches.
Step 5: Say what you are thinking
I know that this is the hardest thing to do, but you HAVE TO say what you are thinking. You don’t have to say it in a mean demeanor or a nasty social media post. The message could be portrayed in passing, in a humorous way, in a formal and professional manner, or in writing. Whatever you choose, the thoughts you have on your mind are important and valid. You need to be heard and SHOULD be heard in order to “let it go” altogether. Saying what you are thinking will provide instant relief from stress and allow you to begin to learn how to communicate with others before it gets to the point of no return.
In conclusion, there are some quick fixes to relieve stress. They may not be perfect, but they will help. Take some time to enjoy you and be with yourself for just a few moments a day. You will see that when the focus is on you, in a positive way, that you will gain confidence, faith, and endurance for the next day. Take it one day at a time and JUST BREATHE. The world is a lot bigger than just us, but we are a VERY important part of it. Embrace your peace… in the masterpiece!
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