By Jennie Pettett, Country Comfort Retirement Homes
It is important to manage stress levels as it can cause havoc on your emotional and physical wellbeing. Stress can narrow your ability to think clearly, function effectively, and simply enjoy life. Practicing effective stress management can help you break the hold stress can have on your life, allowing you to be happier, healthier, and more productive. Stress management is not clear cut, nor does it work the same for everyone. Make sure to test and find what works best for you. Below are a few tips to get you started.
Tip 1: Identify the sources of stress in your life
Managing stress starts with identifying stress sources. It can be easy to identify major stressors such as a new job, moving, or going through a divorce. Pinpointing the sources of chronic stress can be more challenging. Note how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors contribute to your stress.
Tip 2: Start a stress journal
A journal can help note the regular stressors in your life and how you might deal with them. Each time you feel stressed, keep track of it. In your daily logging you may begin to see patterns and or common themes, allowing you to work towards eliminating those unnecessary stressors.
Tip 3: Practice the 4 As of stress management
Avoid unnecessary stress: Many stressors in your life can be eliminated however, do not avoid stressful situations that should be addressed.
Alter the situation: If you can’t avoid a situation, try to alter it. Often this means changing the way you communicate and changing some of your daily habits.
Adapt to the stressor: Adapting to stressful situations will allow you to regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude.
Accept the things you can’t change: The best way to cope with stress is to accept things as they are. Control what you can control!
Tip 4: Get Moving
When you’re stressed, the last thing you might feel like doing to getting up and exercising. Physical activity is a huge stress reliever. You don’t have to spend hours in the gym to experience the benefits. Even the smallest activities can add relief to your day.
Tip 5: Connect to others
Spending time with another human being who makes you feel safe and understood can have a calming effect on you. Make a point to connect regularly and in person!
Tip 6: Make time for fun and relaxation
Outside of a positive attitude and take-charge approach, you can reduce stress by carving out “me” time. Don’t get caught up in the hustle and bustle and forget to take care of your own needs.
Tip 7: Manage your time better
Managing your time can cut out a lot of stress. When you feel like you are always behind and stretched too thin, it’s hard to stay focused. Prioritize tasks and don’t over-commit yourself. Remember your “me” time.
Tip 8: Maintain balance with healthy lifestyle
Practicing a healthy lifestyle along with your regular exercise will increase your resistance to stress. Well-nurtured bodies are better prepared to cope with stress.
Country Comfort Retirement Homes encourages healthy lifestyle habits to seniors by providing an environment that supports senior independence and well-being. For more information about senior day care, assisted living, and Alzheimer’s special care at Country Comfort, reach out to 309-364-3607, or visit online at www.countrycomfortretirement.com. We are located in Elmwood, Henry, and Princeton.