Stop stressing about being stressed!
Staying at home means something different for everyone in this whirlwind of a time under social distancing guidelines. Whether your living space has transformed into a full time home office, child care center, school, a refuge if you’re working on the front-lines, or simply an endless source of cabin fever (and messes)…..we are all going through it right now, and it isn’t easy. As we focus on keeping our distance, one thing is certainly the common denominator: STRESS! As someone who formerly worked from home full time, it’s been a challenge to take a step back to realize how much of my downtime spent de-stressing was outside our home. A time like this is a good moment to dive deeper into our stress management. How do we cope at home, and how is it serving us? Here are some ideas to consider:
Developing Routine
We all thrive on routine, especially children. Integrating parts of your “normal” routine or creating new routines to fit your life right now can help create a sense of predictability through the unpredictable. When we have a general sense of what we’re doing or going to do next, there are less unknowns – which helps to decrease stress and anxiety. How can you create a routine that would help you and/or your family move through the day with ease and joy? Don’t be afraid to start small!
Mini Mindful Moments
Mindfulness means slowing down to take in the present through our senses. The goal is to maintain a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment. Try soaking in the smell, sensations, tastes and sounds in the moment no matter how seemingly insignificant. Think of small moments in your day: taking a shower or bath, brushing our teeth, making a cup of tea or coffee….when we are fully in the present moment, it can help ease our minds take away any worry or fear stemming from thoughts of the future or past!
Moving
Science has spoken: moving helps reduce stress while boosting those feel-good hormones along the way. Even on rainy days getting activity in outdoors may not be possible, if there was ever a time to get creative with indoor activity…it’s now! And remember, it doesn’t need to be extremely vigorous to make a difference. Are there any ways you can challenge yourself to move? Breaking out some dance moves to your favorite playlist, giving yourself a mini workout challenge during commercials or waiting for the microwave, following along to a virtual yoga class, trying out a new at-home exercise video — give it a shot and stay aware of how your mood changes. Check out my colleague Laura’s ideas for staying active for self-care!
Acts of Self Kindness
We often hold ourselves to high expectations, but the fact is – no one can pour from an empty cup. Being kind to ourselves will look different for everyone: finding connection through a phone call or FaceTime, cooking a comforting recipe, aromatherapy oils, letting the chores wait until tomorrow, taking a 10 minute break to stretch or just breathe…you know yourself best. Are there any ways you can recharge throughout the day?
Letting Go
What’s worse than stress? Being stressed about the fact that we’re stressed (or feeling any other “negative” emotion). When things are so out of the ordinary, try to remember to be gentle with yourself and your emotions along the way. There is no “wrong” way to feel! Let go of any judgements that may come up with certain emotions, you are only human.
Struggling with stress? Schedule some time with Dominique to talk about nutrition for a healthy mind and body! REMEMBER, VISITS WITH A REGISTERED DIETITIAN ARE COVERED BY MOST INSURANCE CARRIERS FOR IN-PERSON AND TELE-HEALTH VISITS. ASK US A QUESTION OR REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT TO LEARN MORE!
It’s my absolute passion to work with others to cultivate a lifestyle that’s personal and sustainable to them as an individual. I utilize a psychology based approach focusing on mindful and intuitive eating. My goal is to help others feel their best while making peace with food…because that is something we are ALL worthy of.
Check out more of Dominique’s tips and recipes on her Worthy Wellness and Nutrition Blog.
