I have a new church calling... I was gone for a Sunday and got a new calling. It really was not quite that bad, Mike did run it past me. So I am Cub Scout Committee Chair, whatever that is. At the first meeting they gave me this box of stuff. I was sorting thru and came upon a list of Ten Tips for Tackling the Tears. It made me a little nervous about the new calling. Well anyway I thought it was a pretty good list that we can all use in this stressful world.
My favorite of course is #10, More benefits then I knew of.
Ten Tips for Tackling the Tears
1. Make Time to Relax
Find ways of relaxing. Learn how to meditate or use relaxation exercises. Listen to soothing music. Take a bath. Do whatever helps you relax.
2. Maintain a Normal Routine
As much as possible, try to stick to a normal daily routine. Limit additional responsibilities. Learn to say “No.”
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
Focus on whole grains, fruits & vegetables. Avoid excessive sugar, fatty foods and caffeine.
4. Include Exercise as Part of Your Day
Participating in some kind of moderate exercise activity for at least 30 minutes of most days helps relieve stress, boost energy levels, aid sleep and improve mood.
5. Keep a Positive Attitude
Holding positive thoughts, rather than succumbing to a negative one can help in maintaining a positive attitude. Think positive about yourself. Surrounding yourself with positive and inspiring people can help elevate your mood.
6. Participate in Activities you Enjoy
Make time for hobbies and other interests. Read a good book. Garden, knit, be part of a sports team. Keep a journal. Work on crafts. Volunteer your services.
7. Get Enough Sleep
Getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night will make it easier to cope with stress. A well rested person is more alert and quick thinking and less irritable, grouchy and tense.
8. Talk with a Trusted Person
Talking with someone about intense feelings when stressed can be helpful. Share feelings with a trusted friend, family member, healthcare professional, or clergy. Sharing the distress helps to lessen the feelings of distress.
9. Learn to Adapt Instead of Control
Accept that there will be situations, events and people that throughout life that you are unable to control. Learning to be flexible, to roll with the punches and ride the waves can help in reducing stress.
10. Remember to Laugh!!
Laughter is one of the best medicines; it releases chemicals into the brain that promote relaxation. People who are able to find humor in life and are happier tend to be more productive, live longer and have less physical problems. Maybe a good laugh a day will help keep the stressors away.
