by Britt Turpack, mental health advocate and keynote speaker
April is Stress Awareness Month, a dedicated time to focus on the impact of stress on our physical and mental well-being. Let’s face it, we all experience stress. Whether it’s an argument with a partner, financial concurs, health problems, or maybe burnout, it is easy to let bad stress accumulate in our lives and in my opinion one of the worst things for us.
Sure, there is the good stress (eustress) that motivates and challenges us to achieve our goals. But, without the right coping practices, even that type of stress can get out of hand and join with the negative stuff to leave us tired, angry, and vulnerable to illness.
The following tools that have helped me with stress management. Try them out for yourself! Some may work for you and some may not. Understanding and managing stress effectively is crucial for maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Mindfulness and Meditation
For me, one of the most effective ways to combat stress is through mindfulness and meditation practices. Taking a few minutes each day to center myself, focus on your breath, and cultivate awareness can significantly reduce stress levels. Mindfulness encourages living in the present moment, preventing unnecessary worry about the past or future.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is fundamental to stress management. It’s reassuring to know you’re doing all you can to support your health. Regular exercise (physical activity releases endorphins, the body's natural stress relievers), a balanced diet, and adequate sleep contribute to physical and mental resilience. I love supplementing because it gives me peace of mind that, even on busy days when my nutrition is not perfect, I'm doing what I can to support my wellness. Healthy body = healthy mind!
Establishing Boundaries
In our interconnected world, it's crucial to set boundaries to prevent burnout. Clearly define your personal and professional boundaries, and communicate them effectively to those around you. This includes learning to say 'no' when necessary and recognizing the importance of self-care.
Social Support and Connection
Building and maintaining strong social connections is essential for resilience. Sharing my thoughts and feelings with trusted friends, family, or colleagues and engaging in positive social interactions fosters a sense of belonging and support, helping to reduce feelings of isolation and stress.
Seeking Professional Help
If stress becomes overwhelming or chronic, seeking professional help is a proactive step towards managing it effectively. Mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, can provide valuable support and tools for coping with stressors.
Regular Breaks and Relaxation/h2>
Taking regular breaks throughout the day is crucial for maintaining focus and preventing burnout. Whether it's a short walk, deep-breathing exercises, or a brief moment of quiet reflection, incorporating breaks into your routine can refresh your mind and enhance your ability to manage stress.
Self-Hypnosis
Self-hypnosis can actually rewire the brain and support cognitive functions. It may not work for everyone but has been so beneficial in my personal practice. It supports the mind body connection to enhance relaxation.
Stress Awareness Month is as a reminder to prioritize mental and physical well-being in our daily lives. By adopting these best practices, you can empower yourself to navigate the challenges of stress more effectively. Remember, everyone's journey is unique, so explore different stress management strategies and find what works best for you. Embracing a holistic approach to stress management can lead to a healthier and more balanced life.
LivOn Labs is thrilled to partner with Britt Turpack as she helps organizations and individuals overcome impediments to success through mental health education, motivational speaking, and movement.
Learn more about Britthere.
Follow her on Instagram @brittlovessmoothies.
Keep up with herblog.
Britt's credentials:
- NAMI Representative (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
- Peer Support Certified under NAMI
- 500 hour certified yoga teacher
- Lagree Certified Mat Pilates
- Certified Life Coaching Certification Southwest Institute of Healing Arts
