Eat less, move more. A few years ago, my physician told me that in order to feel the way I wanted to feel, I had to exercise. He nagged me about it at my next visit when I had made no changes. Well, I took him up on it, and you know, he was absolutely correct. Every time I go for a check-up he asks me what I am doing to stay active and he records it. That accountability keeps me looking for new things to try, and since starting this new lifestyle, I have run 2 half marathons and hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon. There is still some stress to deal with, but I feel good! Time spent exercising is never wasted.
I do get a little exercise every day by walking my dog. Of course, I always think I could get more!
One thing that really helps with the stress at work is talking with my program coordinator. She and I have a good rapport, but it's more than that. The main way we relieve our stress is to laugh.
We laugh about the silly behavior of some students, the decisions made my administration that we cannot change, and we also tell each other stories from our years in nursing.
For me, laughter has been a key component in helping me cope with the inherent stress that comes from being a nursing instructor.
I highly recommend it.
Stay away from coping using caffeine to get by, I would think for me personally breathing exercises and things like yoga would help.
Exercise is a huge outlet for me specifically, running! I remember asking myself how in the world will running reduce my stress level which is primarily work related. It has helped me tremendously. Can hardly go a day without it.
Christinia, Yes, making more time for you should be high on your list. You will find that when you invest a little time in you, it's easier for you to dedicate the rest of your time to others. You may find you are more productive too!
Dr. Melissa Read
Allison, It's ok to start small and work you way up. I see no problem with the short burst approach. You've got to find the time somehow!
Dr. Melissa Read
Jeremy, It sounds like you will kill two birds with one stone that way. I love the idea of consolidating coping mechanisms to get maximum benefits.
Dr. Melissa Read
I find myself in the middle of rush hour on the way home. Takes 9 minutes to get to work, 45 to get home. If I ride my bike I will make home faster than driving and get exercise!
Although there are a number of ways to deal with stress reading, talkimg to friends, and exercise seem to work best for me.
I will try to get back on a schedule at the gym, even if it's just short bursts of time, like 15 minutes.
Make more time for myself. Find a balance with family, work and self
Some of the coping mechanisms that I am going to implement in my daily schedule is stretching. It will reduce the tension and I feel it would refresh me. Another good coping mechanism I found is using essential oils. We find that different smells sooth us or pep us up. This has always helped me
David, Two healthy outlets that can happen independently or at the same time!
Dr. Melissa Read
Develop some breathing and stretching exercises to deal with the daily stress.
I know I need to eat better and find a way to get more exercise.
I will definitely excercise more often to help relieve stress.
Definitly more exercise, for all of the short term and long term benefits, and also sharing my stressors with a very level headed friend.
Tiffany, It sounds like you have developed a really healthy approach. That's wonderful to hear. Yes, the 'me time' is great. I'd love to hear more about the kinds of activities you engage in when enjoying 'me time.'
Dr. Melissa Read
Tiffany, It sounds like you have developed a really healthy approach. That's wonderful to hear. Yes, the 'me time' is great. I'd love to hear more about the kinds of activities you engage in when enjoying 'me time.'
Dr. Melissa Read
My go to stress reduction is calling a friend. I should go work out.
