When you start to feel overwhelmed, try taking a preventive approach to working through your stress rather than drowning in it.
- Take breaks: Break up a task by walking away & relaxing for a few minutes.
- Socialize: Spend time with friends and family; being around people is a good distraction.
- Exercise: Any kind of physical activity is great for your brain and your body.
- Start a
journal or diary: Pour your heart out; your diary won't judge you.
- Prayer: Praying puts you in touch with a higher power and can be a source of support and strength.
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Breathing exercises: Some people remember it like this—"good air" in through the nose, "bad air" out through the mouth.
- Listen to music: It's a good way to work through your feelings and clear your mind.
- Hobbies: Creative outlets and interests help you to express yourself and take your mind off worries.
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Visual imagery: Identify your "happy place" and imagine yourself there.
- Meditation: Deep meditation will change your heart rate, your breathing, and even your brain chemistry--it helps you calm down.
- Pet therapy: Animals can be really good stress-busters.
- Retail therapy/shopping: Go to the mall or shop on-line—you don't even have to buy anything.
- Aromatherapy: An air freshener or scented candle can help create a calm and positive atmosphere.
- Laughter: Find something that makes you laugh, or at least smile!
Stress is not what happens to us. It’s our response to what happens. And response is something we can choose.
Managing stress can be challenging. If it all becomes too much for you, let us know, we will help you find a way to get back on track.
