I often see people during a time that they consider to be the worst time of their life. Whether it is due to parenting challenges, loss of a loved one, career struggles, divorce, or any stressful situation, they turn to me for handling stress. Hypnosis is an amazing tool to use for coping with stress. So I love assisting these people. I have several protocols I use with clients. I used them myself during the stress I recently endured with the care and loss of family members. Just as important for me was self-care. The same applies to my clients.
When stress strikes, self-care often takes a backseat. The ability to care for oneself is related to the ability to go within on a consistent basis. It requires listening with open, compassionate ears. However, during those stressful periods, we tend to focus outward. We diminish or disregard our inner life, ignoring our needs and limits.
This can lead to even more stress. A lack of proper sleep, nutrition, and exercise will help to wear the body down. I will check in with my clients to be sure they are taking care in those areas. Once we have explored that, it is time to look at other ways we care for ourselves. This helps us live more fully. Listed below are some great ways to be sure you are taking care of you!
Deep breathes. Anyone who has ever met me or read anything I have written knows how valuable I feel deep breathes are. Even better, go outside and get deep breathes of fresh air!
Wiggle your toes. Yes, whether it is in the water, in sand, tall grass, or just naked tootsies on the couch, wiggling toes helps you release the stress you were storing up in those little piggies!
Listen to music. Whether it is slow and relaxing music or up-beat dance music, music heals the soul.
Create. Painting, crafting, or sculpting makes it easy to get lost in the creation of your project. It helps you tune into your inner genius.
Go for a walk. If you have a dog, that pup will love to join you on an adventure. If not, take along a camera and capture your surroundings.
Work on a puzzle. Crossword, jigsaw or word search. Get lost in the solving and enjoy the feeling of accomplishment when you have completed your puzzle.
Read a good book. It is so much fun to get caught up in the narrative of a great read. It is also mentally stimulating.
Dance. Dance like nobody is watching. There are so many benefits to dancing including improved mood and lower stress and anxiety. According to research carried out by The Arts in Psychotherapy, when the chemicals and hormones are unleashed, they help improve one’s mental state. Even one “lively” session of dance can reduce depression.
Scale back. No is an option, use it as a response when you feel your plate is full.
Ask for help. Our friends and loved ones are not mind readers. Give those who love you the opportunity to be there for you.
Be more social. There will be times you need alone time. There are also times that lunch with a friend, hitting a movie with your partner, or participating in a book club helps. It gets you outside of your thoughts.
Whatever works for you, just be sure that you take care of you. Remember that whatever you are experiencing isn’t likely to be permanent. On the other side will be a whole lot of newfound wisdom.
