Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one.
When you buy a new boat or a golf cart you don’t think about getting tools to fix it. But as time goes by and you experience, wear and tear along with stress on the vehicle you might need to consider a few tools to keep it in working order. A few simple tools you can use to give it a tune up from time to time. A little maintenance can save you a lot of money with mechanics in the future.
The same principles apply to your well being. There are times when we all can experience stress in our lives. Ongoing stress can have negative effects on your health and can lead to depression and other diseases. That’s why it’s a good idea to manage your stress level every day. Are you feeling anxious, not sleeping well? Always tired, having mood swings? Having headaches, can’t seem to concentrate? You might be feeling the effects of stress. When you feel stress coming on its time to get out your tools and put them to work and di-stress yourself.
Below are some tools you can use to handle stress that shows up in your life:
Catch it early.
Know your signs and symptoms of stress; such as headache, stomach discomfort, tense muscles and restless sleep may be early indicators of too much stress. When you feel stress coming on, don’t wait! Put your stress management techniques into practice right away.
Get enough sleep
Something as simple as getting to bed at a decent hour is a great start. Recognize how much sleep you need to function well. Stress can cause a lack of sleep. Turn the TV off early and relax your mind. Caffeine and alcohol before bed are among the most common causes of insomnia.
Distract yourself
Do something fun. Laugh. It reduces the flow of stress hormones. Watch a feel good movie. Phone a friend that knows how to make you laugh. Take a ten-minute nap. Napping has been associated with increased energy, motivation, alertness, and concentration. Taking a break is not being lazy! You’re refreshing your mind.
Confront the cause of stress
Take time away from the problem to think it over. Sometimes by giving the problem distance a solution shows up before you do anything. Identify the source of the problem and if you can break it into smaller challenges you can handle.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to relieve stress. When you exercise, mood-elevating endorphins are released into the blood stream. Break a sweat. You’ll feel great. Not only will it clear your head. In addition, exercise helps you sleep better.
Think the best
Believe good things are going to happen. You will attract good things. Of course, bad things happen to everyone, but keep looking for the good. Be grateful for the good things in your life. The more you focus on what’s good the more good you will see in your life.
Get help for issues out of control
When your stressors are getting out of control, seek help, research the internet, look for books on the subject, talk to a counselor, pastor, ask a trusted friend for help. If all else fails, get professional help. Getting help isn’t a sign of weakness. It takes strength to admit you need help and it shows how responsible you are.
