Dan, So true. When we exercise, it often elevates our moods. We often feel more positive when we complete our workouts and feel more easygoing when stressful tasks come our way.
Dr. Melissa Read
I think that healthy stress coping begins with good physical health. We have to do things that are healthy and good for us. Eat right, exercise, and even try to have a positive outlook and attitude can help with coping.
I like to exersise everyday before work it greatly affects my mood for the day.
Darrell, So glad to hear you have your bike as an outlet, and the mountains too. When you ride safely, motorcycles can be a great way to cope with stress!
Dr. Melissa Read
Nothing that a good motorcycle ride through the canyons can't help, or even a track day once a month, their is an old saying "you never see a motorcycle parked in front of a physcologist's (sp) office"
Monique, A new year is a great time to make some changes. Sounds like you have a few in mind. You are right. When you don't make time for you, you really are doing yourself and others an injustice. It's important to focus on you every now and again, to rest and to recharge.
Dr. Melissa Read
I definitely do not take any time for myself. I do myself and those around me such an injustice. I need to find the importance in rewarding myself with downtime and take the time to care for me as I do others. I feel I would be more appreciated if I first appreciate myself.
My new years resolution...by the way. :)
Time management and classroom management stressors can not be eliminated in an instructors day. To help lessen these, i make lists to keep track of my schedule and projects and make sure that i am fuly prepared for the days lessons.
I find that sharing is the best way to cope with stressors i can't get rid of. Not only does it feel better to talk to someone (or vent a bit), but they may have possibly dealt with a similar issue and may have an effective way of coping that they can share with you.
I'm having a hard time finding a way to cope with stress. I feel like I've got no time to myself. It seems like the only thing that helps is 'venting'... but I feel like I'm just whining all of the time. Based on the training module, it looks like the best choice would be excersize? So, I've started taking walks, but end up taking calls while I'm walking... so I'm not really relaxing.
Tom, Sounds like you have some great coping mechanisms in place. Great work! Walking and breathing work well because they can happen anywhere. Walking turns out to be great for the metabolism too. Some believe it's better than running when it comes to getting in shape.
Dr. Melissa Read
i have found that walking away from the stress of the moment and deep breathing and some brisk walks help very much, i also talk to friend or family if needed.
Annabel, Yes, I believe you are right. The new year is a great time to get started with a new routine. Your plans sound ambitious and it sounds like you have a lot on your plate. I recommend starting small with a little exercise a few times a week. When you get into a routine, you can increase this a little over time and work your way up.
Dr. Melissa Read
Susan, Glad to hear you are so active. I imagine this routine helps you tremendously!
Dr. Melissa Read
Jon, Yes, both ideas sound beneficial. Maybe in this new year, it's time to give at least one of them a try. You can start with exercise. Just 15 minutes a day can really make an impact.
Dr. Melissa Read
Gerald, Love the idea of having a few great jokes in your back pocket. I'm certain this helps lighten the mood when the time is right.
Dr. Melissa Read
I agree I go running 3 x a week and do yoga for my stress it does help and make me more productive
I cope with school stress by talking with "up" people and have some "ready" jokes to tell. It usually lightens the atmosphere.
Deep breathing and exercising seem to work best at reducing or coping with stress.
I really should exercise. Not only would it be better for my health, but could reduce my stress level. Also going to bed when I know I should would help too.
I like the idea of listing them out and either reducing or eliminating when possible. Writing it out would make it more concrete and give me a greater sense of control.
