Talking to my spouse helps us both alot. We set aside us time after work and listen to each other discuss the days events at work. I the summer, we sit on the patio. No TV or Radio on.
try to drink more water i find that the constant running back and forth in the shop watching the students doesn't alow for water breaks but that is something that i have changed and it has totaly helped. you forget how much the body needs hydration.
I found exercise when I can to be effective. Gets out lots of stress
once i know what my stressors are i can try to elimanate them, if i cannot i know now some good healthy coping mechicisms instead of stressing myself out and making matter worse for me
John, It sounds like you have identified a critical coping mechanism that works well for you. That's great to hear! If you've got a method that works well for you, my best advice is to go with it. It sounds like you are doing just that!
Dr. Melissa Read
I think yoga and stretching are great! I'd also like to incorporate running into my schedule. I think it can really make a difference in how your mind/body handles stress.
Just simply step outside and take deep breaths and condition your mind that "you can do it"
Exercise and sharing are the two that I will continue to employ the most. They are very helpful
I find that reaching out to my co-workers is the best way to cope with stess. They understand what I'm going through at work better than anyone and chances are they have the same stressors and can give me pointers on how to overcome them. An added benefit is that I don't have to take that stress home.
As a God fearing, Bible believing sort of guy, this is one area I completely rely on God's word. I pray and ask for wisdom and ask for God's help in whatever matter is causing the stress. The 'tough' part for me is to totally let go and not try to pull it back and 'try' to resolve it myself. In my 53 years, I can look back and honestly say this works...I know it works for me. It also helps me understand that the world does not revolve around me, (and often times it is a result of 'expectations' that causes the stress) so there are a number of benefits of looking into God's word, the Bible as a 'stress' reliever!
Michael, It sounds like you have two wonderful outlets. Yes, I agree that walking away is often the best first course of action. It's great to be able to cool down for a minute and collect yourself. Otherwise you may find there's a risk that you'll respond to the situation in a way that you may later regret.
Dr. Melissa Read
My first choise is to walk away to clear my mind before engaging in what stressed me again. I also like to talk to someone who is not involved but can relate.
I find that just talking it out works well. Maybe going in my car and listening to some loud music or going on a long drive. Other than that a long hard cry will help just as much.
Jennifer, Excellent to hear. It sounds like you have found an approach that works really well with you. If you've got something like this that you can depend on, my best advice is to simply go with it. It sounds like that is your plan.
Dr. Melissa Read
Timothy, Wow, it sounds like you have found two very opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to coping mechanisms. Glad you have found a physical and outdoor activity that you genuinely enjoy. I absolutely love hiking too -- and for many of the same reasons. When times get tough, I imagine you could combine the pizza with the hiking too!
Dr. Melissa Read
Scott, What a great outlet! Thanks so much for sharing. This is possibly the first time I've had a student mention ballroom dance, but I can absolutely see how it would have many benefits. What fun too!
Dr. Melissa Read
Scott, That sounds like a tough spot. Putting together a simple budget, on paper, may help. Sometimes a little financial planning in the short term can help us tremendously in the long term. Your local bank may have an at no cost financial ad adviser as well. You might give them a call to learn more about your options.
Dr. Melissa Read
I really enjoy hiking when the weather is nice. There are a lot of great trails where I live and there is a real sense of accomplishment when you look out from the top of a mountain you've just climbed. If that doesn't work I've found that a digiourno pizza and a big gulp does the trick too.
I have an excellent stress-relieving physical activity. I'm almost embarrassed to talk about it, but let me just say that it's an activity that is best done with a partner...
I'm talking, of course, about ballroom dance. Sure, it can be a little frustrating, learning the steps, but boy, when you step out and dazzle the dancefloor at a wedding you've crashed, all your worries just melt away. (Except, y'know, the worry about getting caught and kicked out of the hotel.)
I get stressed out by the thought that I will likely never be able to afford to retire. I don't know anything that will relieve that stress other than worrying more about money and working more. You can see the bind I'm in.
