Actively Working Through Our Stress
By: Stephanie Romero, MS, RMFT-1 | Mental Health Partner for rhythm | release
Follow her on Instagram: @healthwithstephh
Ever feel like you are not doing enough despite your schedule is packed? Ever feel like you are in a flight or fight response? What about the inability to feel rested even though you went to sleep early enough?
Welcome to the world of stress! It is very common for us to encounter some sort of stress to various degrees. Since strews can appear in any shape or form, the best way to explain stress is a physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension. Stress can be in its simplicity of paying bills, monthly dues, work, and inner self. It is most important that everyone pays attention to the negative effects that stress has on someone. Stress often makes someone feel anxious or “on edge” throughout the day. When stress becomes chronic, it affects more than just our mental state. Some of the health concerns are increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, and glucose levels. So, what is the game plan? How are you going to take control? Learning healthy and proper ways to cope with stress can help reduce its effects.
Common symptoms of stress:
· Increased feelings of frustration, helpless, or worry.
· Difficulties in concentrating and making decisions.
· Headaches, stomach aches, and fatigue.
How to properly cope:
· Recognize when you do or do not have control over situations. For the things, you can focus on, take the time to assess how you can tackle them. To the ones you do not have control, avoid getting anxious about it.
· Allow your mind to focus on what makes you relax, such as meditation, art therapy, walking, visiting the beach, or going to the gym.
· Exercising helps process the stress chemicals that your body builds.
· Take care of yourself – Develop goals to help your healthy living and wellness.
· Lastly, share your thoughts and speak to a friend, doctor, or therapist
RECOGNIZING your stress patterns can help you build resiliency and know how or where to go to help you cope. Look at the overall picture.
What am I doing too much of? What do I need to let go of? Before going to bed, review your to-do list and erase what is not urgent. Only take on what you can do without overloading your mind and body. Oftentimes we say “yes” but know that it is okay to listen to your body and say no. Do not let the stress drive your mind; instead, choose a solution that is best for your mental wellness.
