Stress is a thorn in our side. Everyone has experienced it at some point in life, some more than others. Stress can come from many sources: family problems, personal struggles, work, homework, tests and exams, or even trying to solve other people’s problems.
The symptoms of stress can show up in different ways. You might lash out at others for no apparent reason, feel overwhelmed or exhausted, experience fatigue or headaches, have no motivation, feel irritable or short-fused, take deep breaths with loud exhales, or find yourself arguing more than usual. The signs can be subtle or obvious, but they warrant our attention.
It’s important to become aware of when you are stressed and, more importantly, what triggers your stress response. Stress is your body’s way of saying, “Hey, something isn’t right. I need a release.” Whatever your healthy release is, find it and practice it consistently.
That release might look like going for a walk to calm down, listening to music, unplugging from the world by shutting off your phone, reading a book, saying no to others, taking a day off to pamper yourself, going to therapy, exercising, or other forms of self-care. Additional techniques like EFT tapping and mindfulness practices can also help reduce stress.
Believe it or not, stress can cause insomnia. One helpful remedy may be taking a magnesium supplement 30–45 minutes before bed, as it can promote relaxation and support more restful sleep. Drinking warm tea before bed and shutting down your phone, TV, or bright room lights can also make a big difference. The light from screens can overstimulate your brain and make it harder to fall asleep. This is one things I’ve had to learn. I’m used to cutting on the tv to help me fall asleep and getting on my phone when I get in bed to help wind me down for the night. I thought it was helping….I was wrong.
There are many ways to manage stress, these are just a few to get you started. Stress can be a silent contributor to serious health, relational, and work-related problems. When you recognize that you’re stressed, it’s important to pause and give yourself grace. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of everyone else.
Operating in constant overload is not sustainable. It affects your body, your mind, your relationships, and your overall well-being. Ex. STROKE. Learn your triggers. Remind yourself to slow down and breathe. You do not have to take care of everything and everyone. When it begins to affect your emotional and mental stability, it may be crossing into codependent tendencies.
Don’t do that to yourself.
Take care of your body, your mind, your heart, and your overall well-being. Take care of you and allow others to take care of themselves.
Coaching Elevated 