Stress? What Stress?

September 2021

“The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.” — William James

Stress?? What Stress?

In reflection, perhaps the message should read “Stress? STILL stressed!”

For a moment here and there, maybe we have taken deep breaths and relaxed, let our metaphorical and literal guards down, and felt peace, calm, a sense of normalcy, and hope.

But even in those moments, we know the hard work, navigating the landmine of a pandemic, being present for our families, and the other myriad of things that pull at us are still there. Are you still as exhausted as we are?

Even though this “new” normal isn’t new anymore, our need to FEEL normal continues. Now, more than ever, being empowered is paramount. Here are a few suggestions for managing our stress during the ongoing pandemic, and its good stuff for the everyday challenges we meet, as well.

Routines: these are essential because they create a sense of normalcy and control in our lives. This then allows us to better manage the challenges that come our way. Start your routine the minute your feet hit the floor in the morning.

Social support: staying connected to our family, friends, and community in the safest and best way we can, is important. A regularly scheduled “check in” can help reduce stress (this can also be considered part of a “routine”). It also helps us remain present, and in the moment, instead of reviewing the past or worrying about the future.

Support others: picking up groceries for a neighbor, donating to a charity, or purchasing gift cards from a favorite restaurant can shift our focus and help create a greater sense of well-being.

Daily self-care ritual: exercise, meditation, a bath, painting, etc. Do it at the same time every day – it helps anchor our day and provides a welcome respite.

Encourage others: Words matter. When we share something positive, people will respond accordingly. This not only affects those around us, but it will also come back around, most likely now when it is needed.

Have hope: “Hope is the feeling we have that the feeling we have won’t last.” In other words, this too shall pass. It may not seem like it, when everything still feels enormous and hard and exhausting, but history shows us otherwise.  History also shows us the resiliency of those who have gone before us.

Still stressed? Perhaps a bit less, and now with a few tools for our toolbox. And hey…maybe now would be a good time to send a text to someone you love.

Be Well …

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