4 Tips On Managing Stressful Moments

The past few months have been well... stressful. I’m used to stressful moments and periods of time that are more taxing than others. All mothers can relate to the joys and stresses of the miraculous juggling acts we do each and every day!  Over time, I’ve learned ways to manage these stressful moments or avoid them all together. However, lately, I’ve found that what worked in the past just isn’t enough and that I really need to work at creating spaces for myself that are free of stress. What’s working best for me are things that are both simple and practical. Nothing earth-shattering, just tried and true methods that require thought and intention to put into place.  Below are 5 tips on managing stressful moments: 

Get Your Blood Pumping

Exercise is key not for only your physical health, but your mental health as well. We all know this but how often do we practice it? A healthy body and mind keeps our stress levels at bay. Exercise reduces levels of the body’s stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. It also stimulates the production of endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers (and they also help improve your mood). You could even take a bike ride around the neighborhood with your whole family! Simple fun that gets all of our blood pumping!

Get Outdoors

Did you know that being in nature (or even just viewing scenes of nature on the TV or in books) potentially reduces anger, stress, fear, and instead, it increases pleasant feelings? Being exposed to nature not only makes you feel better mentally and emotionally, but it can also make you feel better physically, too. This is why so many people focus on grounding and other nature-centric activities. Being in nature helps reduce blood pressure, reduces your heart rate, reduces your stress significantly. Nature can be a simple walk or click away. 

Outsource

Are there projects or chores in your life that add stress? Outsourcing these projects or tasks can figuratively and literally lighten your load. Things such as grocery shopping, house cleaning, and lawn care can help in your day-to-day life, but do not forget about outsourcing bigger projects too such as hiring a company to help you with a move. It's important to work with companies and people that put you at ease- not add to your stress. Make sure they’re honest, affordable, and careful with your belongings. Long distance movers Roanoke, such as Star City Services is just that - honest, affordable, and very careful. They provide services with their clients in mind and they are always looking for ways to be more customer-focused. Hiring companies like Star City Services is the best way to reduce your stress during a wild moment(s) in your life.

Breathe

Something we do so naturally without thought can also be hard to do. Nowadays, it’s really hard to take time to just sit still and breathe. Taking time out of your day to focus on being still and breathing can significantly benefit you in the long run. Meditation is a great example of doing breath work that can directly benefit your mental health. If you have mental stress, it can speed up the heart and raise your blood pressure. Meditation can reverse the physiological signs of stress! It slows the heart rate, lowers the blood pressure, and even changes your skin temperature. While meditation is hard to do (especially when you’re first getting started), it is so beneficial and rewarding when it comes to lowering your stress load. Two of my favorite mindfulness and breathing mobile apps are Headspace and Stop, Breathe and Think.