What are you doing to deal with stress?
The connection between our physical reactions and our brain are more linked than we think. It’s hard to imagine that our bodies can alert us to things that our brains haven’t decided to focus on or aren’t aware of. And yet!
A few days ago, I had a few spots that appeared on my neck. The pharmacist, after analysis, deduced that it was not an insect bite or an allergy. Although we don’t know exactly what it is, the most preferred option is some sort of stress-related hive attack.
This got me thinking. Was I more stressed that day than I’ve been in the last few weeks? I’ve never had this type of physical reaction so I was a little confused. And stressed because of the spots, which is not a very virtuous circle…
Assuming it was stress, I mentally listed the things that could increase my mental load in a negative way:
- My job of course, with projects requiring a lot of involvement. On the whole they go very well but my desire to do very well sometimes takes too much place
- Many weekends away from home for the last 2 months. Even if all these weekends were very nice, I had the feeling to be late on things to do at home
- Personal projects that are not moving as fast as I had imagined.
But at the same time I have some big positives that I can compensate for and I’ve also established some habits. That’s what I wanted to talk to you about: my stress busters!
- Set boundaries and routines
The comfort that routines and setting boundaries can bring is essential because it allows us to not have to make decisions about things that are already set, except in exceptional cases. For example, I always make time for breakfast to have a quiet moment before starting my day. I also set time limits for work, even remotely. I’m lucky enough to be in a company that values work/life balance and I rely on it a lot to have time to think about other things.
2. Do some sports
It is often said and it took me a while to realize the effect of sport on my morale. In times of stress, going for a run, cycling or any activity that allows you to sweat and think about something else allows you to take a real break. I try to stick to it once or twice a week to keep in shape and gain energy.
3. Take time for my hobbies
I love to cook, I recently started sewing and I also like to take time to read a little. These are activities that I do less when I’m in a rush and yet they are the ones that calm me down the most. I have to think about it more and I advise you to do the same: what gives you a little bit of air?
4. Don’t be afraid to turn off my brain
Frankly, you can’t always be productive, it’s exhausting. Personally, I have no problem sitting on my couch to watch a series or a movie, just to decompress and without thinking about all the things I could be doing instead, because that would be the best way to end up in burnout.
5. Listen to my favorite music
Finally, I have a small list of songs that I particularly like. When I’m feeling a little underwater, I put on my headphones, turn up the volume a little and spend a few minutes listening to them. Create your playlist and dance if you feel like it.
