Finding Your Peace in a Chaotic World
Hi there, friend! If you’re reading this, then I’m guessing you’ve felt the weight of stress resting on your shoulders at least at some point. Whether it’s from work deadlines, family obligations or even a constant assault of life’s surprises, stress can sneak up on you every now and again, usually at the time when you least expect it. Not to worry! I’m here to share some relatable, friendship based stress management techniques to help you relax, even on your busiest of days.
1. Inhale Deeply:
This may sounds simple or perhaps even a bit trite, but I promise you, there is no underestimating the effects of intentional breathing. When you feel stress bubbling up, try to just take a moment to pause, and take in your breath. Breathe in for four counts, hold it for four counts, and breathe out for four counts. Please repeat this a couple of times, and see how it feels in your body. I remember a week that I had gotten particularly hectic at work, and I really felt my anxiety ramping up. I remember using this technique on my break, and it felt like a thick fog lifted, even if for just a moment! AMAZING what a few breathes can do.
2. Get Moving:
Exercise is not just for physical fitness; it is also a fantastic and effective way to reduce stress! When you engage in movement and physical activities, your body releases endorphins; or, as they like to call them “feel good hormone”. So, find some kind of movement that you enjoy, whether it be a fast walk, doing yoga, or just sweating it out in a workout. I find that when I am stressing more than normal, getting outside and going for a fast walk, makes the most difference. Its not only the walk, but the fresh air and changing scenery or just seeing the leaves sway in the wind, is enough to settle my mind.
3. Engage with Nature:
Speaking of fresh air, nothing is more grounding than engaging with nature. Try to take a few minutes to walk outside, whether it’s to the park, to sit at the lake, or even to simply lean against a tree and feel the bark on your back. Nature is known to calm our frayed nerves. When stress hits me hard, I typically make my way to a local garden. The color, the sound of birds, and even the feeling of grass is very therapeutic. And you can consider it a mini workout as well!
4. Journal Your Thoughts:
Writing can be a great outlet for managing your stress. Take a few minutes each day to write down your thoughts whether it’s what’s stressing you, your accomplishments, or simply what’s going on in your mind. You don’t have to be Shakespeare; just write how it feels for you. Over time, you may even uncover patterns about your source of stress and how to manage them. I began journaling during a very turbulent time in my life.
5. Practice Mindfulness or Meditation:
Although mindfulness and meditation may sound overwhelming, it’s really just a practice of focusing on the present moment. Many of us find this challenging because our minds want to race ahead with worries about the future or ruminations about the past. Start small and simply take a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on the present moment, use an app or a YouTube video, if you don’t know where to begin.
Trust me, it feels amazing to take a few moments for you to unplug everything. On days when I have committed to my mindfulness practice with stress management techniques, I’ve found myself to be more patient and have less of a tendency to be reactive. And, in case you didn’t know, today’s world, that is a win!
6. Laugh It Out:
Now, this one is probably my favorite! Laughter really is the best medicine. You can find all sorts of things that make you laugh—a funny movie, podcast, or simply scrolling through memes—these are some of the best things to laugh about. Laughter will release “happy” hormones called endorphins, and will make your problems not seem as big. I’ve definitely had days improved from just watching some stand-up comedy clips in the evening! Give it a try, and you might find that the laughter allows you to see things differently!
Final Thoughts
Stress is a fact of life, but the way we respond to it can make all the difference. These are not quick-fix strategies, but they can certainly help you create a toolbox of skills for stress management techniques in a healthier way. Never forget that you are not alone and asking for help is always acceptable. Try a few out! You may find your own personal way to peace!
Read more articles: Mindfulness Practices: Adding Calm to Your Fitness
