MANAGING STRESS
Stress is that added pressure we feel when we need to do something extra. We feel it in our bodies, our minds and in our emotions.
Stress is the source of that extra energy we need to finish a race, cheer on our favorite team, remodel a room, or prepare a special meal for someone.
Stress is also the pressure that we feel to prepare for one more meeting, file one more report, do one more job, when there just is not enough time to get it done.
Stress helps us be successful but can also cause us to feel tired and, at times, depressed.
Try the stress busters here to keep your stress under control.
And if you need a little extra help, call the
Mount
Auburn Hospital Employee Assistance Program
617-868-4489
1-800-888-5105
- Deep
breathing. Find a quiet place, sit down, close your eyes if
possible, and breathe deeply, feeling your stomach expand. Hold your
breath for a couple of seconds and, as you exhale, let go of any tension
you are feeling. Repeat 10 times.
- Develop
a support network of co-workers. Check in with each other during
the day and share what you’ve been going through. Problems are
easier to handle when shared.
- Laugh
often. A four year old child laughs about 400 times per day.
The average adult – only 15 times per day. Do something that will
make you laugh, and try to see the humor in everyday life.
- Take a
lunch break away from your desk. Even a 15-minute walk outside
can clear your head and make the day easier to manage.
- Get regular
exercise. Exercise with a friend. Try a new sport. Vary your
workout routine.
- Positive
self talk. Instead of thinking negatively, try to change the
channel. Replace “I can’t handle this” with “I
know I can handle this.” Also, avoid negaholics
and “stress carriers.”
- Try gratitude. When life is looking down, make a list of the things you are grateful for. Chances are this will help you focus on what’s really important to you, and help you ride out the current storm.
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