How are YOU doing? Yes, YOU……. and yes, I really care.

In normal times we all react to stress differently. A headache, a stomach ache or perhaps you can feel your heart rate speed up. If you’re like me, I notice stress when I exhale deeply. 

With all of us personally being impacted or knowing someone who is, our lives have shifted with jobs, children, schools, and not knowing what the immediate future holds.

Disclaimer: I am not a Doctor, just sharing some well-known tips/tricks on how to “De-Stress”.

• Practice Gratitude-
• Breathe Deeply-
• Play Soothing Music-
• Meditate-
• Eat Healthy-
• Read a good book and escape, read light hearted magazines-
• Step away from your desk- do a load of laundry, wipe down the kitchen counters and tidy up, make a cup of coffee/tea or make the bed (you will be happy when you turn in for the night and will bring a sense of calm).
• Shut off your phone once in a while and Stop Checking Email Afterhours whenever possible. Obviously, someone should be able to get a hold of you via a home phone or another family member’s mobile device in the event of an urgent situation.
• Take a walk (even just 10-15 minutes)- Preferably outside for fresh air. Get the heart pumping and blood flowing. Wave to neighbors as you pass (a good distance away) and shout a quick “hello”.
• Visualize- Your next vacation, your next big purchase, a fun past time or happy place.
• Put some greenery on your desk (a plant, flowers, cactus).
• Find some gum or mints that will stimulate the senses.
• Unplug from the Negative.
• Plug Into the Positive- Appreciate what or who you are able to be thankful for (and tell them)
• Talk to your Extended Family, your BFF. Or better yet Facetime or Duo!
• Laugh. Laugh A Lot. And then, laugh some more.
• Do a Hobby- scrapbooking, knitting, painting, gardening, anything that makes you happy.
• Declutter, Organize, and Discard (donate to others in need).
• I’ve read its ok to indulge once a day and treat yourself. Maybe it’s a piece of candy (I’ve read dark chocolate is good), a glass of wine (Red is supposed to be good for you) or bake a treat for you or the family.
• To round out your day, find your most favorite pjs, robes, slippers or socks and crawl into your bed with your favorite blankets and pillows to settle into a good night sleep.
• I like to have lavender or vanilla somewhere in the bedroom that helps with calm and rest.

Here’s to you, your health, and getting through these times TOGETHER.

Warm Regards, me