Cope with and manage stress in your life
• How do you typically cope with and manage stress in your life? I listen to music, go for a walk/take my dog for a walk, take a break, talk to my mom or a friend about what is stressing me.
• Do you feel that you can effectively manage your stress? Why or why not? I do feel I manage my stress well. I think talking about it right away is important. I don’t like how I feel when I am stressed so I try and diffuse it quickly.
• Describe 2 stress management strategies you learned about that you would like to try, in order to better manage your stress.
By tensing and releasing different muscles throughout the body, you can pay attention to these sensations as they change throughout your practice, allowing your body to fully relax.
Another stress management strategy I would like to try is mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness meditation involves focusing on being present by paying attention to one’s breath or other sensations without judgement or attachment. It encourages us not only observe our thoughts and feelings but also brings us back into the present moment away from worrying about what could have been done differently or what will happen in the future. Practicing mindfulness allows for a sense of control and peace when we are feeling overwhelmed by stressful situations, since it reminds us that we do have control over how we choose think and act even though external events often seem overwhelming at first glance.
Both of these strategies focus on controlling our response rather than attempting to control external events beyond our power such as job insecurity or financial instability . Progressive muscle relaxation provides an opportunity for conscious release of physical tension while mindfulness meditation gives us space from worries about past or future outcomes and offers insight into how our own responses shape our overall experience of stress. Trying out both strategies regularly could potentially provide a holistic approach for managing stress long-term if incorporated into daily life consistently along with other helpful coping techniques such as exercise, journaling, deep breathing exercises etc