If you are experiencing stress and can’t make any big changes right now to address it (i.e. quit your job, tell your 5 year old to move out), here are some down and dirty ways to lessen the stress. First, make a short list of things about which you are appreciative today. This shifts you from worry or frustration thoughts to more peaceful ones. Second, make an affirmation about how great the rest of the day will be, or an event in the day. Affirmations are made by finishing a sentence that usually starts with “I will” or “It will be…”. For example, “It will be an efficient and effective meeting.” Affirmations help you attend to the phenomenon you have affirmed. In other words, you believe it so you see it. Third, go for a walk. Get moving. While you are at it take your walk outside. Fresh air and sun is good for you. If none of these strategies are effective, talk it out. Find a positive person who can help you shift your focus and lessen the load. Hopefully this is a good friend who only provides positive feedback. It won’t help if you end up talking to a “negative Nancy.” If you don’t have a friend you can call on there are professionals who can help. The staff at Conscious Living Counseling in Torrance and Beverly Hills is available for a free phone consultation to see if we may be a stress-relieving fit for you.
As always, take care of yourself.
Christine
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