I have learned to be better organized. i have also learned to prepare a head of time.
More exercise, running, sharing with family and writing my priority list.
I would like to add intentional excersize to my day/week. I believe this would help with stress as well as my overall health.
Dawn, It sounds like you take a healthy approach today. This is great to hear. You have a demanding schedule, and yet you manage it in a highly regimented way. Learning to push back and say no can do wonders for the time we have.
Dr. Melissa Read
Melissa, Excellent to hear! I'd love to know what methods you have in mind.
Dr. Melissa Read
I will find healthy ways to manage the stressors that I can not eliminate.
I will say that my favorite way to cope with stress is to plan a nice cruise. My next one is JAN 3-10, 2015 and I am already 1/2 packed!!! I keep luggage 1/2 packed and smile every time I look at it and then de-stress
I always have to go to work teaching very early in the morning. My first class usually starts at 6 am. This means I have to get up at around 4:30-5 am. Sometimes it is hard to manage things so I can go to bed early enough when everyone else I know can stay up later than me. I usually cope by planning ahead and using available time during my work day to get ready for the next, so I don't have to stay up late to prepare. I have also had to learn how to say no to some activities on a school night, when friends or family would like me to stay up later. I can usually make things work so I think I am coping in a healthy way.
Somyot, Yes! I'm curious to hear more about the kinds of exercise that work well for you. Many students report that walking, yoga and swimming work well for them.
Dr. Melissa Read
I totally agree that exercise is the main release stress of our life. Maintain the exercise routine definitely will decrease my stress level.
I have been working on meditation. I think that has helped with the stress I can not change or get rid of. I try to focus on my breathing and clearing my mind as much as possible. It does help!
The stressors in my life that cannot be reduced or eliminated, will force me to come up with some coping mechanisms.
I already enjoy walking and will add two more miles to my daily walks. I enjoy taking the dog outside to play and will make sure I find time to do this each day.
I will make a better effort to keep in touch with may friends on a weekly basis.
I will try meditation as I have liked it when I purposely added it to my daily regime.
Peter, That sounds like a great plan. It also sounds like it may require a big time commitment, particularly the nap. You might start small and work your way up.
Dr. Melissa Read
My family issues are large stressors in my life. I had to recently cut ties with a family member that brough too much stress to me.
Exercise is a great stress reliever! I prefer to walk and make sure I get at least a 30 minute walk in each day! I also get a massage 1-2 times/month and practice good breathing techniques and gentle stretching as well. The thing I could improve the most is going to bed at a similar time each night to ensure I am getting adequate sleep as well!
In the future, I plan to incorporate a moderate exercise regiment utilizing a recumbent bike; in addition, I will include a 1-2 hour read/nap period during the day.
Susanne, Yes, exercise is a wonderful outlet. It sounds like this particular lesson helped reinforce that for you. Wonderful to hear!
Dr. Melissa Read
I've found that consistent meditation helps reduce the effects of stress regarding stressors that cannot be eliminated or reduced. Even if that is just focusing on my breathing for a few minutes. I've also noticed that getting exercise regularly by going for a jog can reduce my overall stress. As long as I don't focus on it as a means to lose weight or get in shape but instead just do it to release pent up stress and negative energy, it usually helps a lot. An added benefit is that I do get in better shape and get healthier, which may reduce or eliminate health related stressors down the line.
Dr Read and Fellow Faculty Members,
What I have learned is exercise, exercise, and exercise. I have always enjoyed yoga and running. I have always gravitated towards physical activity to alleviate stress. I am glad to see that this is well documented venues to reduce stress in my life as an instructor.
Susanne Marshall
Lynn, So true. The best exercise is the one you are most inclined to do!
Dr. Melissa Read
