Jessica Dunn, Office Manager at Katherine Harriet Ltd looks at ways of coping with stress, in aid of Stress Awareness Month in April
Stress awareness has been held every April since 1992 to raise awareness about what stress is, how it can affect us and what tools and support is available to help those who need it. Too much stress can lead to burnout, some signs to look out for is feeling overwhelmed, trouble sleeping, racing thoughts and changes in appetite.
For this Stress Awareness Month, try out these 8 activities for new ways to cope with stress, most of these can be done in under ten minutes, so even if you’re rushed off your feet, you’ll be able to find something to help.
1. Do something creative
When we’re doing something creative we’re using different part of the brain to where stress is occurring. Even if it is for 5 minutes, being creative can help to relieve feelings of pressure. You could draw, doodle, sew, sing, or cook yourself your favourite meal.
2. Get outside
Being outside in nature is great for our wellbeing. Going for a short walk or sitting in a green space can have an extremely calming effect on how we feel. Why not invite to go for a walk around your local park this weekend?
3. Move your body
Exercise is a very effective way to combat stress. When we excercirs our bodies this releases good endorphins, which help us feel good. This doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in the gym, you could go for a walk, or dance around your living room to your favourite songs.
4. Meditation and mindfulness
Meditation is the practice of noticing your emotions and gaining a sense of perspective on them. This can be done by lying down in a quiet place and focusing on your breathing. The first few times you try meditation you may not feel the benefits, or you may find it difficult to jeep other thoughts out, over time, with more practice you will find it easier. You can use an app such as ‘Headspace’.
Mindfulness is the ability to be present and fully engage with whatever you are doing in the moment, it is a great way to centre your thoughts and calm the mind. April 2024
5. Write it down
You’d be surprised what a relief it can be to write down what you are thinking and feeling. You are not writing with the aim of anyone reading it, just for yourself to get down on paper what you are feeling. Buy a Wreck This Journal.
6. Do something you enjoy
When we are really busy it is easy to eliminate the things we enjoy from our schedule, but these are the things which help us to relieve stress.
7. Talk to someone
As they say, a problem shared is a problem halved. Speaking to a friend, loved one, colleague or therapist can lep you lighten the load you may be feeling. The person you are talking to may also be able to help you organise your thoughts, come up with some solutions or help take some tasks off your mind.
8. Listen to music
Music can have an excellent mood boosting effect. Sometimes belting out the lyrics to your favourite song, and having a boogie around your kitchen to your favourite music, can make everything seem a little better.
Jessica Dunn
Office / Administration Manager
