It’s National Stress Awareness Month: How To Worry Less & Live More

The cold, winter months are now behind us.  We can all breathe a sigh of relief.  Spring is here, a time for rejuvenation and renewal, not only for the environment, but for us.  With April being National Stress Awareness Month, it’s a great time to recognize the impact of stress on our lives and how to manage it.

Whether it’s work, family, or the fast pace of everyday life, there are ways to stop stress from becoming chronic. 

Here are some tips to help manage feelings and prioritize your well-being.

Track Your Stress: This is a great starting point!  Journal your stress levels each day. Pay attention to the situations that cause stress and how you respond.

This will help you identify patterns and triggers that you can address.

Exercise Regularly: Be present in the moment and move your body.  Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress.

Endorphins help boost the body’s mood and can promote relaxation and mental clarity.

Prioritize Sleep: Stress can disrupt sleep patterns but it’s critical to let your body rest for physical and mental recovery.

Establish a calming nighttime routine, turn off screens before bed, and ensure your environment is conducive for rest.

Set Boundaries: Taking on too much at once? It’s time to step back and set some boundaries.  Learn to say no when necessary and prioritize tasks that are most important. 

This will allow you to set time for yourself and recharge to avoid burnout.

Engage In Hobbies: Doing something you enjoy is a great way to unwind and relieve stress! I’ve talked with a lot of moms, and we tend to say, “I don’t have a hobby.  I’m always taking care of my kids. I don’t know what else there is for me to do at this point in my life.”  I’m a prime example of this!

We need to learn what we love aside from being a caretaker.  A hobby can help decompress and give a sense of accomplishment.

Implement Stress-Reducing Techniques: Choose a couple of stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, going for a walk, aromatherapy, or yoga.

These can all have a calming effect on the body and reduce feelings of anxiety.

Celebrate Small Wins: It’s important to acknowledge and celebrate small victories along the way.

Whether you’ve completed a challenging task or simply took time to relax, celebrating your successes will help reinforce positive coping strategies.

While stress is an inevitable part of life, it doesn’t have to control us.  National Stress Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to take a step back and evaluate how stress is affecting your life.  By making just a few small changes and prioritizing self-care, we can create healthier habits and live a more balanced life.