It sounds like you have developed some great coping mechanisms Tim! Yes, the active games on the Wii are a new innovation that bring another fun coping mechanism to our lives.
I have learned that breathing exercises and exercising in general can be a great way to reduce stress. I love playing active games on my Wii, and I can use this to unwind and de-stress at the end of a long workday. I do talk with a good friend about what stresses me out at work during the day, and just having him to talk to helps me get things off my mind.
This is a great plan Miriam. Being proactive can really save us from getting stressed out in the future. And holding people accountable for their actions reduces the chances that we will instead resent them, which is better for our relationships in the long run.
I am going to develop proactive plans that keep the stressor from occuring in the first place where applicable and to not feel bad about holding people more accountable for their actions.
Tai Chi sounds like a great idea Leo. Thanks for sharing.
Wow, this is a great list. Thanks for sharing Andrea. I particularly like the idea of using a Wii. More and more, these are becoming popular.
I have already had coping mechanisms in place in my life - otherwise I would have already gone completely bonkers! Depending on my mood, I'll:
- crochet or knit
- play with my dogs or cat
- run on the treadmill
- take a walk (the dogs really like this one)
- go on a date with my husband (if we can both swing the time)
- use my Wii
- read that book I've been meaning to get to forever
- call my Mom and Dad for a chat
- practice music - I find the concentration and control required to practice makes me forget about my stresses for at least a little while
I would have to say that stretching and breathing have been wonderful stress relievers and they are two things that I can continue to use. I do, however, think that more physical activity could be beneficial.
I do many of the suggestions mentioned in this course to cope with stress.
I find stretching and breathing is good especially when I am in an environment that is limited to do physical things. I even find it to be good if I wake up during the night being stressed out.
I regularly do exercise such as swimming and playing tennis a couple of times a week.
The best suggestion I like the most is the ability to talk with someone I trust about the stressful moments in my life.
All have been exellent in helping me eliminate, reduce and cope with stress.
This sounds tough Rebekah. Some parents are able to include children in their exercise routines - depending on their age. Going for a bike ride together for example is a great way to both spend time and stay fit.
I know that exercise would really help me. The problem is that I truly do not have the time. I have a gym membership, but the only way to do it is to go at 5:00 AM. I stay up late grading papers because I have two young children. So, I think that I might try to get a babysitter one afternoon a week. I could try to work for four hours straight. That might give me the chance to work out at least two times a week.
Thanks. This has been so very helpful.
Rebekah Garrett
Indeed. It might feel a little strange at first, but booking time for you can be the key to coping with stress. Give it a try and experience for yourself the kind of benefits it brings.
Regular stretching can work great Megan. My challenge has always been trying to find the time to do it. I have found that doing small simple stretches at my desk, during short breaks, has been the best solution.
I already practice some healthy coping mechanisms such as sharing and being sure to get enough sleep. Two that I really want to get in the habit of (and haven't been successful with as of yet) is regular stretching and exercise.
It often seems like an additional stress to try and find the time to fit these in but I know that if I can get into a routine I will feel better overall and will be better able to manage my stress.
I give so much time away to others both professionally and personally,this leaves little time for myself. It is an area I can bring change to by booking time on my calendar for myself.
Cathy Dutertre
I have a bad habit, I smoke a pipe. It is a health risk, but at the same time it allows me to make time for myself and spend 20 minutes clearing my mind of stress. This habit, although it could be considered very unhealthy, has a positive side to my life, enabling me to create a routine which divides my day into work, contemplations, tasks and reflection.
I like the idea of creating a life management schedule - and doing so once a semester. I think other instructors could benefit from this method too. Thanks for sharing Douglas.
Having a 'to do list is the first step for me. I usually have a 'to do list' in my head is not very effective and results in stressful situations. Now I plan on writing down a 'to do list'.
Also, I need to stop multitasking too much ( need to checking e-mails at a certain time each day ). Also I could do a better job of balancing family life and work and also being more regular with taking walks. These steps would help me cope with stress better.
Seema Vaid
This is a great list Gardner. Even if you are only able to make a few of these things happen, it could make a big difference in the way of coping with stress.
This sounds like a great plan Diana. Sleep, walking and talking to friends are all effective coping mechanisms. Even if you only have time for one of the three, making it happen can make a significant impact.
