1-Minute Read: How Do You Cope With Stress?
I often hear from my clients (both women and girls) how STRESSED they are feeling. Stress is real and the effects can range from mild to serious. Studies show that chronic stress can have life-long impacts on our health (emotional and physical).
To counteract stress, wouldn’t it be worthwhile to revisit your toolbox for dealing with stress? I think so (especially this time of the year).
Ideally your De-Stress Tool Box should contain a mixture of action steps and mindfulness techniques.
Action Steps usually involve self-care, such as:
Take a walk or have some form of a physical outlet.
Have a cup of tea and take a break (even when you feel like you can’t).
Enjoy a hot bath.
Spend time with friends or by yourself.
Reach out for support / share with a friend.
Mindfulness techniques can include:
Acknowledge when you are feeling stressed and give yourself permission to feel the way you feel.
Watch your self-talk and change the negative to a positive (i.e. “I realize that I am overwhelmed but I know this feeling will not last forever. Let me figure out the first step I need to take to climb this mountain.”)
Ask for help. Use your voice. Don’t try and do it all.
Stress is a part of all of our lives. One way I determine my personal success is by how I handle stress. For me, changing my self-talk has made the most difference. I am also very aware that my daughters watch me to decide either how they want to act in the face of stress or how they do not.
Which do you want to role-model? Get the conversation started!
Licensed counselor and founder of Girls Stand Strong Michelle Kelley, LCSW, helps girls and women of all ages develop and improve their self-image, self-esteem, relationship and communication skills, emotional understanding, coping skills, the ability to handle difficult situations and people, and resiliency to create a brighter, better and more successful tomorrow. For more information about Michelle’s coaching and counseling services, call (540) 316-6362 or email michelle@girlsstandstrong.com.
