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| Path: Main Street > Resources/Library > Research Articles > Feature Article |
Stomping Out Stress: Signs of Stress (S.O.S.) Part 2
By Kristin Duare McKinnon, HBSW, MSW
May 12, 2008In Part 1, I outlined some of the warning signs that the stress in your life may be getting out of control. In this article, I share strategies for coping with chronic stress.
1. Ask for help. Every problem has a solution. A fresh perspective can make a world of difference.
2. Be aware of your expectations. Stress is often caused by our own unspoken expectations. See Tackling your to-dos and New Year's Revolution for tips about recognizing and tackling yours.
3. Learn to say 'no'. Don't think of it as letting someone down. You are being mature and responsible about your commitments.
4. Only own YOUR stress. When you feel the stress level rising, take a moment to figure out the source of your anxiety.
5. Eat well. Avoid processed foods - especially sugar and 'white' carbohydrates. Include more fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, complex carbohydrates and other whole foods in your diet. (And don't skip meals; the more you skip, the more junk food you'll eat.)
6. Exercise regularly. To make success more likely, choose activities that you enjoy. If you need extra help to stay motivated, exercise with the friends who you'd otherwise never find the time to see.
7. Schedule an annual physical. No doctor? Ask for recommendations from friends and family, or contact your local health authority for a list of available physicians in your area.
8. Explore alternative care. Massage, chiropractic, aromatherapy, reflexology and acupuncture are but a few examples of alternative care options. Don't consult the yellow pages - ask family and friends what and who they recommend.
9. Do what feels good. Pets are proven to calm anxiety and bring down blood pressure. Listening to music, touch and laughter lift us emotionally. Pay attention to what makes you feel better and do it more often!
10. Revisit something you love. You will gain confidence, meet new people and feel great.
11. Try something new. Don't be limited by fear, geography or your own comfort level. Explore and learn. Be daring.
12. Take time to be alone (doing nothing, quietly). Sit in the sun, watch the clouds - do nothing. Being alone will help you get a handle your life and priorities.
13. Spend quality time with family and friends.
14. Get out of destructive relationships. Not all relationships are good for us. For more information about harmful relationships, click here.
15. Gravitate toward positive people. You'll feel all the better for it.
16. Get away. Take a break. Go away for a vacation, a weekend away, or even just a Sunday drive.
17. Practice your faith. Being involved in a church or faith community can provide you with hope, purpose and human connection.
18. Remember, time heals all wounds. Whatever is eating at you now won't seem as bad tomorrow or a few months from now. Keep life in perspective.
19. Most important of all: Remember that you are only human. Take care of yourself!
Kristin writes for Community Living Kawartha Lakes; for more of her articles visit the Community Living website at www.communitylivingkl.ca. Please read her disclaimer.
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