Stop Stressing!

Life can be stressful! In less than two weeks my family and I will be leaving a church we helped start over 7 years ago. We have been under a lot of stress over the last several months, not just because of the move but also because of family health issues. My wife’s mother has been very ill and this past weekend she received word that her father just passed way. Needless to say it is a stressful time! Here are a few things that I have found helpful in overcoming stress.

Take time for you

Ask yourself: “Am I giving too much to others and not enough for myself? Do I need to take time to pamper myself?” If the answers are “yes,” refuse to feel guilty about it and do it! This is difficult for me because my job involves helping others.

If you feel guilty when you do something enjoyable for yourself, chances are you will stop doing it. Ultimately, you lose. You may be living your life through other people’s standards and expectations. Take control of your guilt-producing thoughts. Focus on the benefits to you and your family that will occur when you are a more relaxed and energized person.

Go to lunch and don’t rush

Take a long lunch break at least three times a week. Don’t do business during lunch. Read a novel over a cup of tea or good coffee. Go to a museum. Sit quietly by a stream. Eat slowly. Try a new restaurant. Go out with a good friend and agree not to discuss problems or business.

Exercise more

Walk by yourself or with a friend. Talk about possibilities, not problems. Join an aerobics class, go to the gym, play tennis, ride a bike, hike on weekends, go to a fitness resort, or jog with friends. Exercise will do more to reduce stress hormones and chemicals in our body than any other activity. I actually get a lot of exercise when I go wheeling in my Jeep because I have to get out of it and go up and down large rocks and hills when navigating trails.

Learn deep relaxation skills

For me this involves a quiet time, away from noise and activity. I have a devotional time with God and my Bible. This is really what gets me through life. Many times I listen to music also. Practice your relaxation skills every day. It helps you “change the channel” in your brain.

What things could you add to this to help overcome stress?