We live in fast, ever changing times. Everyone gets stressed at one point or another. But while some seem to manage just fine, others may become completely incapacitated and overloaded. The difference? Knowing how to avoid letting stress build up and eventually overwhelm you.
Strategies for avoiding
stress buildup can be as simple as changing your physical environment and
habits.
What’s great about it is that it’s probably the same advice you’ve been hearing for years.
What’s great about it is that it’s probably the same advice you’ve been hearing for years.
Let’s start with diet
and exercise habits. How much junk food, caffeine, and alcohol you consume can
have a huge effect on stress levels. Though it may seem like it saves you time
and stress to make a run to your local fast-food joint for dinner then go home
and watch TV for three hours before bed, it doesn’t necessarily do so.
Taking the time to prepare (or purchase) healthy meals, skipping out on your eighth cup of coffee, getting more rest, choosing not to over-consume alcohol or cigarettes, and exercising regularly all help your body stay healthy and happy. Translation: less stress on your body equals less stress on your mind.
One thing that always increases stress levels is feeling unprepared and therefore overwhelmed by obligations. The best solution for this is to find a way to manage your time better. Your day should be a balance between work and play, and should always include time for you to relax in whatever way is best for you.
It is absolutely ok to say no sometimes. Don’t take on more obligations if you know you are nearing your limit. Learn to recognize what stress feels like, when it starts to build up, and how to avoid it. Only then can you take control of your environment and your sanity along with it.
What happens if you do get overwhelmed? Simple. Establish some coping methods, such as a personal journal, a support system, or even physical therapies (such as massage, aromatherapy, or yoga). Don’t be afraid to come to terms with your stress, but don’t forget to look at the big picture either.
Taking the time to prepare (or purchase) healthy meals, skipping out on your eighth cup of coffee, getting more rest, choosing not to over-consume alcohol or cigarettes, and exercising regularly all help your body stay healthy and happy. Translation: less stress on your body equals less stress on your mind.
One thing that always increases stress levels is feeling unprepared and therefore overwhelmed by obligations. The best solution for this is to find a way to manage your time better. Your day should be a balance between work and play, and should always include time for you to relax in whatever way is best for you.
It is absolutely ok to say no sometimes. Don’t take on more obligations if you know you are nearing your limit. Learn to recognize what stress feels like, when it starts to build up, and how to avoid it. Only then can you take control of your environment and your sanity along with it.
What happens if you do get overwhelmed? Simple. Establish some coping methods, such as a personal journal, a support system, or even physical therapies (such as massage, aromatherapy, or yoga). Don’t be afraid to come to terms with your stress, but don’t forget to look at the big picture either.
