Our response to stress forms an important part of our ability to look after and protect ourselves. It alerts us to danger and helps us to deal with it appropriately, it keeps us performing at our optimum level whenever we need to. But we also need to learn to calm ourselves once the danger has passed and the situation is dealt with.
Human beings need to exert ourselves both mentally and physically. As a Counsellor and Hypnotherapist I find that many of my clients have jobs where they either work very hard physically and their bodies are exhausted at the end of the day, or they have to concentrate and be very engaged intellectually in their work environment and end up mentally fatigued. Both situations need something to complement their daytime occupation. So, even though an office worker may not feel like it, going to the gym or having a walk or a game of tennis would be a really effective way to boost their energy levels. And the physical or manual worker would benefit from reading a good book or playing a challenging mental game.
Effective ways of managing stress are about finding a balance in life. Doing something completely different that is enough of a challenge to be stretched, but is satisfying at the same time. Something creative may be an option. Writing, music, painting, gardening, handiwork are all potential outlets.
It is also important to ensure that your home is a comfortable safe retreat, a pleasant sanctuary to return to at the end of the day. Lighting is important as a mood setter and can provide a soothing, calming environment. Lamps are often better than direct overhead light. Some people enjoy using candles, comfortable cushions, attractive prints or paintings, music, perfumes. If it is not possible to make the whole house a stress free zone then ensure that you have an area for yourself, like your bedroom. Try to keep it free from clutter, even if you have to use screens to separate a work station from the bedroom section.
Plan a treat from time to time. A picnic, a country walk, a leisurely bath, even an afternnon with a good book, are all inexpensive ways of having some ‘me’ time. If you are at home put the answerphone on occasionally to give yourself a break.
A detox day is a good way of clearing toxins out of the body and is a healthy way of getting back on track, especially if you have been feeling jaded or over tired for a while. If you plan to fast, then see your doctor first to check that it is okay.
Book a massage or a girls night in for pampering. Facials, manicures, pedicures and just gossip and snacks can be a great way of recharging the batteries with good company and friends. Men too are appreciating the value of a regular massage or de-stressing treatment as a way of maintaining and supporting good mental and physical health.
Arrange a sleepover at a friends house for the children occasionally. Even if there is no specific reason for doing so, it is good to sometimes have a break. Return the compliment from time to time.
Keep a Happy Book where you regularly write down the good things that have happened in your life. This is an excellent way of training the mind to really notice and appreciate the little things that regularly happen to us, like a kindness from a stranger. Cut things out of magazines, or keep a flier from a show or a stone or a leaf from a walk. Build up a bank of cheerful memories, experiences and articles that can be tapped into and treasured regularly, but also referred to on tough days.
Susan Leigh, Counsellor and Hypnotherapist
www.lifestyletherapy.net