Stress Buster

​Some stress can actually be helpful to nudge us out of our comfort zone, but the intense stress that potentially pushes us over the edge isn’t fun, healthy or productive.  Although we can’t prevent all stress, we can manage some of the feelings that come as a result of it.  Consider trying one or all of the following to spark some calm amidst the craziness:
 
Press your own buttons.  Our bodies have a built in stress-release button. Triggering a pressure point for 60 seconds, found between the tendons, two or three finger widths above the center of your inner wrist is a point called pericardium (PC6).  Research shows that using your finger to apply pressure to PCS potentially has a calming effect on our nerves.
 
Breathe.  You’ve heard it before and you will surely hear it over and over again, but slowing down to balance your breath can get you out of “fight or flight”, which can help lower the stress hormone cortisol.  Inhale and exhale through your nose for counts of five in and out.  Do this for a minute and you might feel the tension leave your body.
 
Get minty (re)freshed. When we get worked up, we tend to default into negative rumination of undone tasks.  But enjoying a mint will activate your task-positive network.  Tic Tac anyone?
 
Think about the good stuff.  When you’re stressed, remembering or imagining yourself in a safe, happy place can be calming.  Conjure up images from your last vacation or the happiness you felt on a special day.  If you have a hard time getting your mind there, its time to rely on your phone to scroll through photos.  
 
Just Do it.  Move!  Being active boosts your bodies defenses against stress, with a bonus of it could be enjoyable. 
 
Cheers.  Drink to bring yourself down and sip on some tea next time you are hyper stressed (or even moderately stressed). The act of stopping the negative stress spiral to make or get and enjoy a cup of tea can help bring calm your way.
 
 
It’s a myth to think that we can be stress free, but we can begin to learn to gain some control in managing the feelings associated with it and become our own stress buster.