I find that having no job related activities and/or hobbies allows my mind to focus on things that do not stress me out. this mental refocus often helps replenish me enough to reduce the feeling of being stressed out all the time.
Some things I will do is to share with other co- workers. I think talking will help me with the stress. I will try breathing and stretching exercise. Also, I like making a list idea to see what I can reduce or just eliminate.
Susan
Knowing that there are methods to alleviate stress is helpful in itself.
Jennifer, I love your concept about "me-minutes." Nice! Yes, even just a few of these can go such a long way and can help us cope with the complexities of work and life.
Dr. Melissa Read
Kristina, WOW! It sounds like you are really into your hiking hobby. What a wonderful way to both unwind and get some serious exercise. Thanks very much for sharing. You are an inspiration to many others.
Dr. Melissa Read
I instruct 2, five hr. classes M-Th. Friday is my get everything done, leaving me with the weekends to go hiking...and I mean hiking. 36 miles is my average. Let me tell you, that really lets me release a lot of pent up stuff and I'm ready to rock and roll come Monday.
In dealing with STRESS...I have learned " what you cant change, accept." We have certain obstacles we reach that are unchangeable, maybe policies, maybe a co-worker, maybe a students personality. Learn to make the most of the situation, turn lemons into lemonade! and remember BE NICE or else!
Meditation, reading, trying to relax, travel and maybe some Sertraline.
I have already started, i recently had some stress related medical problems and realized that i had been putting unrealistic pressure on my self, now i slow down a bit, think about the problem and come up with a different way to do the same job that i would have stressed about before.
A couple of healthy ways to cope with stress for me would be to perform deep breathing exercises and I like the idea of calling a family member routinely for revitalization.
I find that a sense of humor goes a long way in dealing with stress I can't eliminate. I have also found that I really need to make a few "me-minutes" when I am forced to deal with those things - I take time to do something that is just for/by/about me. It allows me the opportunity to cope better with those things that would otherwise drive me crazy.
Eric, So glad to hear that running has worked well for you as an outlet. Yes, it's a wonderful way not only to clear your mind but also to be stronger when you return to your role.
Dr. Melissa Read
I'm going to create a list of things that I can't do anything about, things that I can reduce and things that I can eliminate.
I cannot change the stressors such as my bills and my salary. I am unsure if any of the coping methods mentioned in the lesson would be beneficial for me. Is there anything different that anyone else uses that would be helpful?
Some things I like to do to cope with stress are reading, sitting outside for fresh air, sunlight, and birds chirping, going for walks, painting, and getting a massage, facial, or mani/pedi. You really have to take time out for yourself every once in awhile. We deserve it! Also I feel much less stress and more control when my home is nice and tidy.
Exercise
Talking it out
Eating Healthy
Makeing time for myself
Considering myself as an athlete and runner, I like to use exercise as a stress reliever. When I run, I feel like I can clear my mind and relieve some tension that has built up. At the same time, I am building endorance for those busy and long days that require a healthier body and more energy to be productive.
Heather, Great points. Sometimes we have to reset our expectations. Prior to having kids, you probably expected that your home would be organized in a certain way and you were probably able to fulfill that goal. Today, your situation is much different and it's healthy to adjust your expectations accordingly.
Dr. Melissa Read
Michele, Taking a step away is a wonderful approach that I highly recommend. For some instructors, it feels almost impossible with back to back classes and office hours. Other instructors have the luxury. Even if you can step away for just 5 minutes, it can be totally worth it.
Dr. Melissa Read
I started making a promise to be in bed by 10pm at least 3 days a week and it has helped me cut down my stress level because im getting more sleep.
