The other day I took a pretty nasty fall down a flight of stairs. My first concern, was for my unborn baby, so an ultrasound was scheduled to be sure things were okay. While waiting, worrying and feeling the intense pain of a possible broken tailbone I began to think about the stressors in my life and how to minimize them. It is known that stress can manifest itself through physical pain and I had to wonder if all of the pain I was feeling from the fall was also exacerbated by the stress in my life.
Some things that are so simple and basic can really make a difference in how you think, feel and act. It’s all common sense, but how many of us really take the time to do the basics to ensure good health?
Eat breakfast. Sounds simple enough, but how many of us choose to hit the snooze button for that extra few minutes of sleep and forego the most important meal of the day? Eating a healthy breakfast sets your pace for the day. I honestly never used to eat breakfast, but when I made the change, I noticed such a big difference in my energy level and ability to concentrate.
Exercise. Do it for physical health, do it as a stress reliever or do it for both. I know many friends who start their day with a 30 minute workout. They’ve told me how it really gets them motivated for the day. Others do their workout after work as a way to relieve the daily stress. In my prior work-life, my employer had a gym built so that employees could work out on their lunch break. Everyone knows the importance of exercise.
Get organized. Nothing is more stressful than clutter and disorganization. It makes you feel overwhelmed and frustrated. Give everything a place, purchase organizing tools, make to-do lists and implement a system that works for you.
Take time for yourself. Read a good book, watch your favorite movie, schedule time at the spa for your favorite treatment or simply do something you enjoy doing.
Go out with friends. Spending time with good company can lighten your mood, make you laugh (which is good for everything) and change a negative outlook into a positive one.
As simple as all of these might seem, we tend to get so caught up in our stressors and sometimes forget to see that doing the basics can make a world of difference.
What do you do to lead a less stressful life?
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