Tips For Stress Management

Tips For Stress Management

You know, modern life as we know it can be pretty stressful. I have friends who’s cell phones, blackberry’s and iphones, not to mention their kids, have become actual extensions of their own bodies. You know the type. You couldn’t pry their phone out of their hands with a crow bar. Just try to get them to turn it off. I dare you. These are all people who could benefit from learning a few good tips for managing their stress. Even though they think they are handling everyday life just fine. I sit back, watch and smile wondering just how long it will take for the inevitable crash to occur.

Sooner or later, it WILL happen.

We can only take so much. Stress is a sneaky little devil that can lurk into our lives without us even truly realizing it. Until it’s too late. But it doesn’t have to be that way. “Learning to manage your stress early on – is the key to living long”… I like to say. Simple changes in your life can make a huge impact on the quality of life you live.

There are two types of stress in simple terms. Good stress for example, helps to motivate us and push us further then we might have gone otherwise. Think: Michael Phelps during the Olympic games. He used the enormous pressure and extreme stress of Olympic competition to his advantage. By harnessing that energy in the proper way, he was able to propel himself to Olympic history.

Then there is bad stress. The stress most of us feel on a daily basis. We all know what that is, so the question becomes “What can I do about it?”. Here are a few tips for Stress Management that if used properly and consistently will lower your stress levels. Remember, the body follows the head. So we want a clear head and heart to ensure that the body stays healthy.

Tip #1

First things first. Get organized. Clean up and clear out. When we organize our lives and the spaces around us, we regain a true sense of self empowerment. Stop for a moment right now and take a look around you. See that junk?  If you don’t use it everyday, it has to go. Take charge. Cleaning up and clearing out makes us feel like we are in control again. Clearly define your priorities and set realistic timelines to execute your organizational plan.

Tip #2

Get moving! Work that body at least 3 times a week for at least 30 minutes at a time. A regular exercise program and truly be life changing in so many ways. The benefits are both mental and physical. When we exercise we release wonderful stress busting hormones that rush throughout our bodies. In addition, to all the physical benefits, you will find that the regular routine serves as a great method for clearing your mind as well. After your work out, you’ll feel better and be more mentally ready for whatever comes your way.

Tip #3

Take time for you. I know you might have kids, I realize you might have a spouse or other pressures like the bills that are piling up on the desk to contend with. However, if you don’t take time out just for you every once in a while, eventually you’ll find yourself taking time out because you HAVE too. Not because you wanted too. Taking time to rejuvenate is one of the most important skills that you could ever learn during your journey to living a better life. Walks in nature, a bubble bath or even just a good old fashion nap can really help you in the long run. Don’t forget to take care of you first.

Tip #4

Make sure you are setting realistic goals. This is one of the biggest problems I see everyday. People forget that they are only capable of doing so much within the 24 hours we are allotted each day. Most people I see complaining of too much stress have stretched themselves way too thin. No one like to fail. However, failure is a matter of perspective and it serves a great purpose in our lives. So, be careful not to overreach and keep your focus on the tasks that you know are most realistic.

Tip #5

Eat well. When we don’t provide our bodies with good nutrition we are actually altering the biochemical profiles that make us feel exhausted at the end of the day. Prolonged periods of this can cause some serious affects on the body like physical changes in the way we look, feel, act and function. Do your best to eat good healthy foods. You’ll feel the difference.

Tip #6

Have some fun. Life can’t be all serious business. You have got to learn to let go and enjoy life. Reconnect with friends and family. Seek out friendships with like minded people or groups and improve the life you life through social connections. Find something you truly enjoy doing and make time to play. It really is such an important part of the overall stress management system.

We are only human. We can only take so much. And when it all becomes too much to take, that’s when it’s time to take a break. You can learn all the tips for stress management you want, but if you don’t take care of you first, you’ll never be able to care for those you love around you and that’s just the honest truth.

It’s a proven fact.