An exercise routine will probably help me cope, plus it will have the added benefit of making me feel and look better.
Yes, sometimes is nice to spread your vacation out so you can experience the benefits year round. Also, staying home and not traveling during your vacation time can sometimes be more relaxing than planes, trains and automobiles of getting to a new destination.
Sounds like a great new years resolution Holly. The new year is a great time to reflect on things we'd like to do differently and make plans for the future.
That sounds like an excellent plan Christina. New moms often struggle to manage the stress of balancing it all, and exercise/relaxation often falls off the list. But taking a little time for you can make a positive impact on others who you are caring for.
I understand where you're coming from Tasha. You might try identifying a few different kinds of exercise that work for you in different locations. Some that can be done from home, others at work. Then, you can be more spontaneous and exercise whenever and wherever you find the time.
I actually do love to exercise and in the past have used it as a source of stress relief. Unfortunately finding the time to do so with all that is on my plate has become a stressor in itself. One part of me knows I need to exercise as I perform better, sleep better, and feel healthier overall, but the other part of me dreads trying to "pencil it in"!
Jennifer, one of the hardest things for us to do is to take care of ourselves. It is important to find some time where you get what you need. It took me awhile to realize that but if I am not happy and taking care of me how am I going to take care of my children. It is amazing what a few deep breaths can do. Take Care!
James Libell
I need to start exercising again. Since I have a 5 month year old and full time job, sleep is something I cannot add into my schedule. I think if I went on a jog 3-4 times a week, I could reduce some of my current stress. Also I am going to add treating myself to massage once a month to work out some of the stress in my neck and shoulders. :-)
I know from past experience that exercising---a simple walk to clear you hear each day is a great stress reducor. I unfortunately, fell out of the practice of taking my own advice a coupel of years ago.
With the new year right around the corner, I am going to start walking again in the early morning. Hearing birds sing, seeing the sun rise and the dew on the grass is calming beyond belief :)
Priscilla,
That is so true with how things are right now it is time to be thankful we do have jobs. It does help in that respect that because of that fact as we look around and see others who are not working our gripes about work see minimal.
James Libell
I find that just the hustle & bustle of every day life causes me stress. Specifically getting the kids up & off to school on time.
I will definitely try to take care of me during the day. I always put myself last & this is not healthy.
I will exercise more, pick up the phone & vent when needed and be sure to keep breathing!
I tend to share with others when I have stress and I think getting a good night's sleep will be helpful. I will have 3 weeks of vacation this upcoming year and since I do not go on trips I will be able to take a day off each month. I think taking a day to get away and refresh oneself or regroup is a healthy way of coping with stress in addition to some of the healthy strategies already mentioned.
That sounds great Donald. And know that if you're busy, it's ok to start small and work your way back up to where you were before. Sometimes it's hard to jump back in fully.
It's great to hear that you tried something new...and that it worked out so well. Sometimes we just have to be open to new possibilities. When we are, we can find coping mechanisms that work much better than what we're used to.
This is a good idea to consider Jacqueline. There are some people in our lives that cause us too much stress. Limiting our exposure to them and thereby their impact on our lives is sometimes a healthy way to go.
I agree Priscilla. The economy has definitely driven many people to changing their perspective and focus. Life as a working instructor can be challenging, especially if you're balancing several jobs at once. But life as on out of work instructor is likely more challenging. It is nice to be employed!
Excellent idea Simone. And you'll find regular exercise has many other positive benefits in addition to helping with stress.
Excellent! Sounds like you are on track Frank.
Hello All,
I will continue to exercise regularly which has been a big stress reliever for me personally. I will also make a list of the stresses within my life and see which ones can be eliminated or reduced. I will also reflect upon healthy coping methods for further support.
Hi Dr. Read,
I have long known the importance of regular exercise. I find that as life speeds up, my exercise regimen diminishes or gets eliminated altogether.
Based on the reminders in this module, I will incorporate more exercise and make it a priority as a committment to myself.
