Tools for Coping with Stress

One of the most common issues we deal with personally and talk to others about is stress…how to control it and its affects in our lives, how to address anxiety-inducing circumstances, how to be and feel well! In the past months of living in the midst of a global pandemic, we have felt stress levels go off the charts. We have joked about that old commercial, “Calgon, take me away!” (Are we dating ourselves?!) Most of us wish we could push a magic button and transport ourselves to a simpler time, one with more fun and less worry. While we may not have an instant fix or magic elixir, we do have some tips and tools that have worked for us. We shared some of our favorites in a recent episode of the EnVibe Life Conversations podcast and outline them below…

                                                                                                                        XOXO,
                                                                                                                        Amy & Cheryl

1. Know That You are Not Alone!

No matter how much it looks like someone else has it all together, they probably don’t! We are hearing this from person after person after person we talk to—those in our daily lives and also professional counselors who deal with scores of people. Have compassion and understanding for yourself. And know that we are all in this together.

2. Intentional Breathing

We always say that it all starts with the breath. Almost every other tool we will share starts with intentional breathing. And we also love it as a tool on its own—and here is the magic: you always have it with you! A simple exercise we practice is to center yourself, breathe in for a count of five and breathe out for a count of five. This will slow your heart rate and calm your nervous system. Add an affirmation like “I am well” as an extra reminder to yourself. We particularly love intentional breathing because you can practice is anywhere at any time without anyone even realizing you are doing it. One or two minutes can make a huge difference.

3. Meditation

Spending even a few minutes a few days a week in meditation can show huge differences in reducing acute stress in your life. Don’t be intimidated by this! Anything from a few minutes of stillness to a more sophisticated transcendental practice can help welcome in positive change.

4. Mindful Movement and Exercise

The positive effects of exercise on stress levels has been well-documented. We all think of slow and deliberate movement such as yoga, Pilates, and Gyrotonics as an anecdote to stress, but any movement can help improve your mood. And, more than that, you can turn any form of movement into a meditative practice by starting with the right intention.

5. Journaling

Let the paper help contain your worries! If your thoughts and concerns are overwhelming you, write them down. By having a place to hold them for you, you can reduce the amount of stress weighing on your mind. This alone might help you to work through your worries, or you might choose to come back and revisit them at a later time. Either way, the paper (or computer) can be a valuable tool to work through those thoughts or concerns that keep swirling through your mind.

6. Create a Sacred Space

We are all spending more time at home. Without a change of scenery, we can feel surrounded and trapped by our stresses. By adding items to your environment that nurture you and your soul, such as candles, photos, and beautiful objects, you can create a comfy and nurturing space for yourself.

7. Nature

Sometimes even a few minutes in the middle of the day to feel a breeze or gaze upon a tree can change your perspective. Increased screen time, LED lights, and other modern devices can cause fatigue and even affect our emotional conditions. We have found that even a few minutes outside can completely change our attitudes and prep us for the rest of our day.

8. Fun!

Don’t forget to add things into your life that you truly love. Read a book. Turn your favorite playlist on full volume and dance. Meet up (even if it’s virtual) with friends. Learn something new. Many of us have a “Work First, Play Later” mentality. The problem is that when the work is overwhelming (or unending!), we never make time for the fun. Add it into the mix!

9. Seek Professional Help

Dear friends and family can offer an ear to listen or a shoulder to cry on when you need it. But there are also therapists, doctors, and other experts who can provide invaluable help and comfort. Not only are they educated and equipped for helping their clients through stress, sometime having an objective third-party in and of itself can prove valuable. Experts are there to help, without judgement, and in your best interest.