By Susan Williams
Susan Williams, MEd, RH(AHG)Pushing back on the rising stress of our times never comes down to one easy answer. But here are a few simple options you can remember to include in your daily routine.
Give yourself a break already!
As we push through busy days, try taking small, periodic breaks from your routine and from information overload to be more effective. These mini-refresh moments can give your brain, and your body, a chance to refresh, reset, and rejuvenate.
Complete one tiny open loop.
Put away the item that’s been sitting out, send the one short email, or make the appointment you’ve been postponing. The goal isn’t productivity; it’s reducing the mental burden of something unfinished. And who doesn’t love checking something off a mental or physical list?
Take a “no-input” break.
For 2 – 5 minutes, eliminate incoming information: no phone, news, music, conversation, or multitasking. This can be a quick and easy way to reduce cognitive demands and calm both your body and your brain.
Change your physical environment.
Move to a different room, step onto the porch, or better yet, walk outside for a minute. Environmental change can be a surprisingly effective way to interrupt rumination or an escalating stress response.
Susan Williams, MEd, RH (AHG), is a certified holistic nutritionist, yoga instructor, Duke trained National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, and enthusiastic student of health for older citizens.
Disclaimer: Self Care posts are shared for information purposes only, and are never intended as individual medical advice nor as a substitute for healthcare services.