There are times when we can all feel overwhelmed. Whether we are feeling overworked, underappreciated or feeling completely alone and lost…these feelings can be extremely overwhelming. Learning how to “reboot” our systems can be one of the best ways to reduce stress and begin the process of unwinding the feelings that can overwhelm our lives!
So where do I begin? Here are some helpful ways to reduce stress in everyday life.
- Listen to your Inner Voice. We often learn to dismiss our inner voice. Slowly start listening to what your inner voice is telling you. Do you need more rest? More physical activity? Maybe some quiet time? Start with small reflections on how your inner voice has brought peace to you in the past.
- Take a Walk. Changing your scenery can help refocus your priorities and give you a reprieve from the daily grind.
- Make a cup of tea. Warming up with a cup of hot tea (or cooling down with iced tea in the summer) can give you a quick pause to take time for yourself.
- Sketch a Picture. I’m not talking about a Monet…scribbling basic circles or lines can release pent up energy without even moving from your desk!
- Write in a Journal. Don’t worry if writing is not for you! Making a list or even a picture journal (think scrapbooking) can be helpful in narrowing down and reducing stress.
- Listen to Music. Music has an uncanny ability to calm, motivate, energize, and even connect us to others. Listen to music and “listen” to what is happening within yourself.
- Spend some time with a Plant. Planting a small plant or garden can not only bring life to the plants but to yourself! You may find your stress levels decreasing and your energy levels increasing as you tend to your plants. You don’t have a green thumb? No worries! There are nature preserves, arboretums, parks, and more for all of us who may not want to take on the task of gardening. Spending time in these places can decrease stress levels as well!
- Read. Curling up with a good book, reading a quick article, or even listening to an audiobook can refocus our brains and allow for moments of quiet.
- Animal Watching. Whether you are an animal lover or not….watching and hanging out with animals can have a soothing effect on our minds and bodies! Watching birds, observing squirrels, tossing a ball with your dog, or basking in the sunlight with your favorite feline can release endorphins and other “feel good” chemicals in your brain.
- Learning to Say NO. Our society seems to be constantly moving at a fast forward pace. With so many responsibilities at work, home, school, church, friends, and more…we often feel obligated to say “Yes” to everything and everybody. Learning to say NO can be freeing. It also models that it is ok (actually it is MORE than ok) to take the time and pace yourself.
While these steps can be helpful in reducing stress, if you find yourself continuing to struggle with stress and anxiety it may be time to reach out for additional help.
At Vitality Counseling we offer support in navigating stressful life situations along with specialization is anxiety reducing modalities.
Life can feel overwhelming but it does not have to stay that way! Contact us for more information on how we may help.
