Stress

Stress

I would venture to say that most of us (and probably everyone reading these posts) are going through excessive stress right now and are unsure how to handle it. As we all know, stress can accelerate illnesses and cause illness. I don't know about you, but my stomach is a ball of knots, and sleep is sometimes elusive.

So, what do we do?

1. Take time for yourself, even if only for a few minutes. Breathe. Close your eyes, sit in a chair, and slowly take in a breath (I picture this breath blue), hold it for a few seconds, and let it out slowly (this is pink). You will be amazed at what a few minutes of mindful breathing can do.

2-Write a gratitude journal, and make it specific, not just "I am grateful for my home" but "I am grateful for my home, and know that I am safe." "I am grateful for my cellphone because I can keep in touch with those I love." If not, use phrases like "my bed," "fresh coffee," and "a new dress." A gratitude journal can help you slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in your life.  Also, spin them in a positive way.

3-Watch less (or no) news. Some people are glued to the news. While it is important to be apprised of what is happening, news doesn't change significantly (or affect us) over a few hours. Take a news break; the news will still be there when you return. 

4- Put on dance music, as loud as you want, and dance around the house for 5 minutes. It will help you emotionally and physically.

5- Do for others, smile at strangers, make their day.

6-Watch the movie "Patch Adams." In addition to being entertaining and inspirational, Robin Williams, the lead actor, shows how a smile to a stranger can make a huge difference.

7-Carry around a bottle or two of water or a protein bar. Instead of just walking past people experiencing homelessness and those begging, give them something they can use. I recently went into Target, and there was a family outside begging. I wouldn't give them money; I bought a loaf of bread, peanut butter, jelly, and drinks. The clerk even gave me plastic ware and paper goods.

8-Reach out daily and tell someone (or more than one person) how much they mean to you.  Call instead of text.  I called my friend last week on her birthday.  She said she had numerous texts but only one phone call.  It makes a difference.

9-Show compassion for others.  I went to the dentist today, and I struggled with the hygienist. She talks non-stop about everything.  And she stresses me out.  Today, I decided that she was lonely and listened.  Only 30 minutes of my life, and all was well.

 10-And lastly, a bonus for those of us who wear hearing aids.  You can have a private concert or meditation.  If you need to decrease stress, play something, just for you, through your hearing aids.  Nobody can hear but you. And everyone will wonder about that little smile on your lips.

Make a difference. Your stress will decrease as you follow some or all of the steps above. And you will help make the world a better place. 

Please share your ways to decrease stress.