Create a Habit of Managing Stress in 2009

Stress is an unpleasant condition brought on by life demands. Typically, stress is associated with a burden, such as a deadline to get a project done or needing to pay a bill when the checkbook is at zero balance. Stress can also be felt when life is on a positive trajectory, like getting a job promotion or the arrival of a new baby. Be it positive or negative, whenever we need to adapt or make a change in our daily routine, stress can seep into our lives and have devastating impact.

What are the signs of stress? You might be thinking, "What a silly question. I know what stress is. Everyone around the world is feeling a level of stress these days due to the economy." True enough, so we will leave that info for the second page of this eNews. Bare in mind, that there are gradients of stress and if left to run its own course without recognizing how stress is impacting our lives and those around us it can have a devastating effect.

What to do about stress?
American Comedic Actress Lily Tomlin says, "The chief cause of stress is reality." Perhaps her second notable quote is more worth taking a look at, "For fast acting relief, try slowing down."

When life is screaming for you to "Hurry! Hurry!" Physically slowing down your thoughts and/or pace seems like an insurmountable task. What to do? Try a few deep breaths. Taking a moment to focus on your breath and refresh your lungs when in a stressed state, can be done even while on the run.

A slow inhalation through the nose to a count of five, held in for a count of five and released for a count of five is all it takes to nurture the body and mind. Try this three times. It won’t cost you more than a minute of your time. You might find yourself yawning, a sure sign that you are relaxing, as the body is enjoying the deep intake of oxygen it craves for your wellbeing.

Joining a gym and exercising is a great way to manage stress. If money is tight see if your local school is open to having groups use the gym or basketball court. Perhaps there is a weekly group meeting there already that you can join. Most of these groups pay a small usage fee, that can be a little as $1 per week for residents. Check with the secretary at the school for after school activities. Most of these groups rarely advertise and you might find an aerobics class, yoga, or Pilates right in your own neighborhood.

Don’t sweat the small stuff. Prioritize the tasks that are most necessary to get done. Often we can be our own biggest critics, so make sure to give yourself a break when you do accomplish a task. For some, just getting up out of bed in the morning is hard to do when life’s bills and woes are piling up. So go ahead, look in the mirror and say to yourself "Good job."

Sure managing stress takes a bit of self-motivation at a time when you are at the least motivated place in your life. It is okay to ask for help and certainly a good idea if you find yourself feeling any of the following: headaches or backaches, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, weight gain or loss, and/or frequent sick days.

Stress knows no class boundaries, race boundaries or borders. It is constant as change, how we mange it is up to each and every one of us. Be proactive, redirect stress, don’t let it get the best of you.

Have a friend or colleague who showing signs of stress? Send them a hand written note of appreciation, do lunch, encourage them to take a walk with you on your break and most importantly let them know you care.
Taking care of your self is one of life's best investments.