Stress, our old friend. It’s ever-present. And it’s not going away. Every day we hear on the news something that makes us gnash our teeth. And since social media makes everything immediate, even from the far-reaches of the globe. Former allies are now questionable, and we’re cozying up to former enemies. Your boss is asking for ridiculous deadlines. The talk-show host on your favorite radio program has gone insane. Even commercials are making us angry and on-edge.
And when we feel those stresses, they can manifest themselves in our behavior. Many people eat when they’re stressed. Some get cranky with those they love (because getting cranky with the boss can get you fired). Some people become ill. None of these are good things.
So, how can you keep your blood pressure (figuratively) under control?
Take a step back. Unplug for a while and turn off the TV.
Go for a hike in the woods. Or just a nap under a tree in the back yard. Enjoy some nature.
Close your eyes, clear your mind and breathe for a few minutes.
Talk to a friend about your dogs.
Play with your dogs.
Work in the garden.
Listen to music. Not on the radio.
Some people advocate meditation. I honestly do think it helps to ground me. I do a couple of minutes every day or so – without meditating for a bit my mind tends to take off into the “What if …” zone. And then it goes around in circles and spirals, and I get all hot and bothered. So I sit down, close my eyes and think about nothing.
Some people like listening to guided meditations. They’re good too – in fact, I’m developing a series of short guided meditations.
But, whatever you do, make sure the stresses of today’s world don’t affect you adversely.