Coping with Stress
Think about the stressors in your life that cannot be eliminated or reduced. Based on what you have learned in this module about healthy coping mechanisms, what will you do in the future to cope with these stressors?
The best thing I can implement into my day routine to cope with stress factors is concentrating on breathing and meditation to "let things go" that I have no control over.
Planning for more sleep will help
Melissa, Love your approach of finding free yoga shows on Hulu! There is likely a lot of great content there for others to try.
Dr. Melissa Read
Ron, Sounds like you have developed a healthy approach to stress management. Having a couple different outlets to rely on likely helps a lot.
Dr. Melissa Read
I will continue to get out and walk when I have the time! I also have started to practice meditation. Another thing that I find relaxing when I have time, is to cook. I find that I am focused and very happy.
Based on the material, I am planning to attend yoga classes that stress (no pun intended) the practice of breathing. The stretching part of the yoga is only natural and for a man of more years that helps tremendously.
I have always tried to get enough sleep but have not really implemented the other techniques for stress management. I do my best to eliminate and reduce my stress and avoided physical activity because it never has appealed to me. Now, that I am aware of the breathing and stretching activities, my plan is to incorporate these into my daily schedule. I like the idea of stretching and this can be done within a short timeframe with what I believe will produce good results. The breathing is quite easy to utilize throughout the day even while teaching. This module has been informative and helpful.
Yes, exercise! I've found some free yoga shows on Hulu, and I've actually started to do them this week. I think getting into a new habit like this will be a little easier during winter break.
I make sure to take time to walk around the halls of school and chat with students as I'm not a big exercise person and I make sure to have adequate hours of sleep during stressful times.
I exercise at least 4 times a week to deal with stress. and to make up for some of my nonhealthy coping mechanisms that i refuse to give up.
Other things i do when i feel stressed is to walk the campus and talk with students, i find it gives me perspective on things.
Coping with stress is an everyday task. We all must find healthy ways to cope with our stress so we will be effective for our families and our jobs.
Ironically, this prompt creates quite the quandary...again! I am starting to realize that I need to practice what I preach (or in this case, teach!) I deliver an instructional mini-unit on conscious breathing and alternative exercises like Thai Chi, Hatha Yoga, etc. I've used modified versions of the stretches and positions in Yoga to cope with daily stressors. Once again, I think I need to get back to doing this.
Karl, All great ideas. Now how to get this all done. I recommend starting small and working your way up. This is a lot to take on all at once.
Dr. Melissa Read
Randy, Great to hear. I'm sure your family enjoys this too!
Dr. Melissa Read
Exercise and speaking about them are definitely the way to go. Overall healthy living is always a goal of mine and I try to re-set that as a priority when I can.
Prioritizing the "to-do" list will help immensely particularly at this time of the year!
Actually I run on a daily basis and I often comment that I can solve all of the problems of the world while I exercise. When I do not have a chance to run I definitely can feel the difference. Little things begin to bother me, I have less patience, and I feel increasingly anxious. So I work very hard to get my exercise time in so I can maintain a positive attitude.
But there is one area in which I can improve upon and that would be getting enough sleep. I am not consistent and when I am tired so much changes. I transform into an emotional mess. I have been telling myself that during the holidays I will do my best to help myself get more rest. I am trying to keep that as a top priority.
For me going to the movies with the family is a good stress release.
Worry less , exercise more , plan ahead, create more space for me.
