Stop Stress in its Tracks: 5 Easy Ways

The Low-Down on Stress

We've been focusing a lot on helping parents manage stress better because of the direct impact parental wellness has on children.There are plenty of reasons to start dealing effectively with stress. For starters, stress has a major impact on our physical and mental health.

Physical Health Impact of Stress

Headaches
Muscle aches
Fatigue
Sleep issues
Appetite issues...and MORE.

Mental Health Impact of Stress

Increased anxiousness
Lack of motivation
Depression 
Restlessness...and MORE.

When stress continues unchecked, it can result in negative behavioral manifestations that cause even more problems, spilling into every area of our life.

Stop Stress in its Tracks

1. Walk

Something as simple as a walk around the block can be enough to bolster your spirits and help you cope better with life's uncertainties. Aerobic activity increases the "feel good" chemicals in your brain. Weather too frightful for walking? Here's one of my faves for indoor stepping.

2. Talk

Talk to a trusted friend or relative and unload all the things that trouble you. Feel like you're burdening them? Find a good therapist, counselor or coach in your area who can help. Short on cash? Call a support hotline.

3. Bend

You can be flexible both figuratively and literally. Mental flexibility is essential for stress management. Yoga, for physical flexibility, can be extremely effective for relieving tension and helping you remain centered and calm. Have a combination of both and you're way ahead of the game! You can even get the kids in on this, and you'll be teaching them a skill they'll keep for life!

4. Smell

Aromatherapy is a GREAT way to reduce stress. Lavender has been touted as a very calming scent.

5. Listen

Sound is healing. From healing tones to classical music, find what soothes your soul. There is no denying of the relaxation response that is elicited from calming sounds and melodies.

Of course, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention breathing. We've got a whole separate post on that. You can find it HERE.

Ahhhhh, doesn't that feel better?

Want more help with stress? 

Here are our newest resources for moms:

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Brand NEW Resources

to Combat #MomStress

Each includes a BONUS download with 11 stress-busting tips for mom!

Click on either image to learn MORE

and to get

40% OFF now.

Or...get BOTH at a greater savings,

if you are clinician or coach by 

going HERE!

If you need resources to help you help your kids navigate the trickier, more challenging things in life...find help in our "Feelings Shop" of digital downloads at: bitly.com/kidsfeelings

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Wendy Young, LMSW, BCD, is  the founder of Kidlutions and co-author of BLOOM: 50 Things to Say, Think and Do with Anxious, Angry and Over-the-Top Kids. She is the creator of numerous workbooks and resources to help from the preschool through the teen years. Follow her on Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook! She'd love to see your smiling face there!