What are you doing to reduce stress right now??

What do you do in your life to reduce stress???

Let’s face it...stresses are high right now.  You are dealing with a lot on our plates and it can be so overwhelming and frustrating.  We do not want our families to get the rest of us but the best of us each day.

So we HAVE TO do our best to keep our REACTION to our stresses as low as we can.  I know you cannot control the stresses that come flooding into your life but we can control your reaction to those stresses. 

And the planner in me says...FAIL TO PLAN & PLAN TO FAIL.  

So having a plan to tackle the stress head on is the only way to stay positive and sane during this time.  I am sharing my best tips for you to help calm your nervous system during times of stress.

Here is the plan:

 **Take a deep breath.  Do not underestimate the power of deep breathing.  It can be magic during a stress time.  Take 5 deep breaths in the car when commuting to work, when doing your business on the toilet during a potty stop or when you want to scream in frustration.  Channel it into your breath.

**Journal your feelings.  When life was at its most stressful for me, I found journaling to be very therapeutic.  It’s a judgement free zone.  You can write a letter in your journal to the person who is frustrating you or the thing that is challenging you.  It’s a great way to process your feelings and free write an action plan to tackle it head on.

 **Move your Body.  Exercising your body releases happy hormones.  So be sure to move everyday.  Do something fun, energetic and upbeat to help you release all the negativity.  ( I am loving boxing right now in this season, there is something about punching it out that makes me happy!).  You can dance or walk outside to get your body moving.  And bonus health points for walking in the sunshine and getting some vitamin D.

 **Drink some tea.  The soothing effect of the hot tea helps you to slow down, breath and be in the moment.  You cannot drink a hot cup of tea fast!.  Maybe add a little CBD oil too so the calming effect. 

 **Meditate.  You have to reframe your thinking on meditation.  I was resistant too. It’s okay to have “squirrel brain” and tons of thoughts when sitting still...that is normal.  The practice is learning to go back to your breath and refocus on your breath.  Guided meditation works best for me so find a guided meditation app you love.

 **Take a Hot Bath. You deserve the interrupted time to yourself so be sure to take it. Bonus points if you meditate in the bath and drink some hot tea!

 **Cuddle. Cuddling my kiddos or hubby is good for your soul.  You can even cuddle and snuggle your pet if you have no loved ones in your home.  Take the time to slow down and cuddle someone you love, it releases oxytocin and makes you feel so relaxed. 

Stop putting yourself on the back burner and make a plan to take care of you and reduce the stress in your life.  It’s a must to be healthy and happy.

Shannon : )