10. Just Relax.
Simple words but how do you apply them in real life.
a. Target ideas. Each time you feel stressed write down the way you feel and compile a list of things you need to do to target the stressors for that event and eliminate them once and for all.
b. Sleep well. Make sure you get enough of it. The lack of sleep impairs concentration which adds pressure, stress and eventually anxiety.
c. Take a real holiday. Get away and take some time off, avoid thinking about work and focus on the things you enjoy. Get engrossed in a hobby – this is called psychological flow – and time passes without you knowing about it because you are enjoying the hobby or time off. This also applies to weekends and evenings away from work which few people think about. We will call it transition relaxation which we have just ‘made-up’. It is the time between home and work, do something to get your mind off work – car radio listening to good music, drop off at the library, stop off at the local store and pass some time talking with someone.
d. Some other ways to relax. Stressed or not find a routine time for relaxing. Listen to the free download on relaxation and use it. Breathing exercises are good for relaxation. Muscle relaxation techniques. Physical exercise. Take a walk. Mental rehearse in the minds eye an upcoming event and see yourself being outstanding. Talk with a friend. Listen to relaxing music. Engage in an activity you enjoy and divert attention away from stress. Undertake a course of therapy in psychoanalysis.
Finally
Feel free to download or copy these strategies, remember to cite Window on the Mind. If you have any comments we always listen, take note and immediately act so please let us know what you think. Our free 'What is Stress' (Side 1, Side 2) Interview and demonstration is now available.
©2006Michael Whitenburgh
Window on the Mind