Stress-busting tips part 1

I’ve decided to try to write slightly shorter posts so that they’re less time consuming to read. I’m splitting this post about ways to manage stress into two parts. I will post part 2 on Wednesday.

Stress is still at an all time high during this pandemic and getting harder for some to manage through. Here are some tips I use to get rid of stress that might work for you too.

Five tips to manage stress

1.Believe in your ability to cope

Embrace your strengths. Remind yourself that you can influence the outcome of events in your life. Create action plans to address problems that come up at work and home.

2.Learn to relax

Try deep breathing and meditation. A hot bath, a walk, yoga or other stretching exercises are great ways to relieve stress.

3.Try to manage your guilt

Feeling guilty drains your energy and motivation, so be realistic about your expectations of yourself at home and work or school. It’s not possible to be a perfect family member, partner, spouse, parent, friend or employee.

4.Talk to someone

Talking about your problems can help you blow off steam and can give you some ideas you need to solve problems more easily.

5.Have fun

Nothing relieves stress more than doing something that makes you happy or reduces your stress. Learn to do something you’ve never done before or used to love to do. Learn to play an instrument, ride a bike, join a virtual cooking or art class. The options are endless and their are a lot of free classes out there right now.

If you need more tips to help manage your stress, check out some of my other posts.

If you feel your stress is too much to handle, please contact your doctor, a counsellor, psychologist, psychiatrist or a health care professional. Don’t try to go it alone.