As we move into April, Stress Awareness Month, I’ve been reflecting on how stress has shown up in my life. I used to group all forms of stress together under the same umbrella - the “bad feelings” or “run the other way” umbrella.
When I felt stressed, I took it as a sign that something was wrong and needed to change. I never allowed for the possibility that stress could be a good thing. Like many things in life, stress exists on a spectrum.
According to the Cleveland Clinic,
“Stress is a normal human reaction that happens to everyone. In fact, the human body is designed to experience stress and react to it. When you experience changes or challenges (stressors), your body produces physical and mental responses. That’s stress.
Stress responses help your body adjust to new situations. Stress can be positive, keeping us alert, motivated and ready to avoid danger. But stress becomes a problem when stressors continue without relief or periods of relaxation.”
Stress is a normal human reaction, but if your stress levels continue to rise it’s helpful to identify tools that will support your well-being.
Here are some tools that help me navigate stressful situations:
Exercise
Meditation
Spending time outside
Getting together with friends/family
Coaching/Therapy
What is most helpful for you in times of stress?
What stress management tool could you prioritize this month?
If you’re not sure where to start, we recently started hosting a virtual restorative yoga class on Sundays. It’s a welcoming space to find a sense of grounding and peace at the start of each week. We’d love to have you join us!
If you experience stress this month, remind yourself that healthy stress is normal and might even increase your motivation! If you are experiencing chronic stress and are feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
Additional Resources:
How are anxiety and stress different?
Learn more here!
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