Managing Your Stress: A Plan

So this week, while browsing the web, I find this great site (This is it!). Though, it had a variety of interesting stress-related topics, I found this page on stress management the best. It has a clearly outlined and simple plan for developing a system to managing your stress,one that I found intriguing. The plan is comprised of four simple steps. The first step is to identify the source of your stress- they recommend you do this through something like journaling. The second step is to organize and prioritize your stresses, then to figure out how to manage these issues. They recommend using their key (Here's the link to that), to figure out what you need to do to manage each kind of stress. And finally, once you have identified what options you like best, to create a plan or schedule around those ideas.

Getting some Zzzz's

One of the best things to do when your stressed is to SLEEP. Whenever we don't get enough sleep, our bodies become sluggish, causing us to lose efficiency- which when your stressed, only amplifies your pain. Now getting some Zzz's may sound like a simple thing to do, but when your stressed and have a million things to do, it's hard. So, when my minds racing and I can't fall asleep I use these tricks:
1. Try putting some lavender scent on your pillows. The smell always calms me down and overtime the scent will become affiliated with sleep, helping you fall asleep faster.
2.Try and stop doing distracting or heavy activities before bed. For example, I always have to stop doing homework at least an hour before bed, along text or socializing on the computer because otherwise I'm still focused on them.
3. Try developing a "going to bed" route. Sometimes just brushing your teeth and washing your face  can remind you of going to bed and get you in the mood for sleep.
4. Try reading before bed. **Side note: This works for many people, but if your like me, it will only energize you and you'll end up reading all nights. So, with that said, I prefer to watch TV.
5. If your minds still racing, try writing everything down on paper; whether it's a to do list or just random thoughts,just get it down out of your head can help you fall asleep.
Hope this helps!
And Happy Thanksgiving!

Puppy Dog Eyes

I have three beautiful dogs, Mrs. Lily, Mr. Guiness, and Grandpa Max. All of whom are the cutest dogs you'll ever meet. Yet, beyond being just plain adorable, my pups are often one of the best outlets when I'm stressed. I mean, who can feel sad when an adorable puppy is looking up at them? And on those days that I'm feeling really down, my dogs are always there. They'll  come up and let me pet and snuggle with them, they'll even let me rant, sitting patiently and attentively, as if they really knew what I was saying. Besides being good listeners, pets can also improve your health. Who knew that stroking your favorite dog or kitty actually lowers your blood pressure. So, no excuses, go give your dog or cat some love! 

Guiness & Lily
-Grandpa Max was too big to play :(

Battle stress!

One of the best ways I've learned to deal with stress is to set aside time for physical activity- I've found nothing clears the mind like a good jog.  Not only do you get to zone out, release any frustrations and listen to your favorite songs, you also get the extra health benefits! First off, you get that rush of endorphins which produce natural "feel good" chemicals in the body. Secondly, exercising helps one maintain a healthly weight, and being that I am a girl, I know how stressful a few extra pounds can be. And lastly, exercise improves your cardiovascular  strenght, which is always good. Now I know running isn't for anyone, but there are some many options out there: swimming, hiking, walking the dogs, playing some basketball or tennis,etc.  You can even enlist a friends help by having them exercise with you to keep from getting bored! So I suggest you try it soon:)