For some of us, simple things to relax us can do the trick. Taking a walk, watching a favorite TV show, resting/taking a nap, baking, running, cooking – the possibilities are endless because we all have different activities that help us relax and help to lessen those stressful, anxious feelings we get. I have no one set way of lessening my stress level, but throughout a particularly stressful period in my adult life, I found that watching episodes of the TV show, “Friends,” took my mind off of all that was bothering me. Watching “Friends” swept me into their fun and entertaining relationships and experiences, and it never failed to make me laugh. Laughing REALLY helped me feel better. And fortunately, I could still keep my focus on real life, remembering that my life was never really going to be as life is on “Friends!” It was still a fun distraction, and it truly did help me relax and forget about my woes when I became too tightly wound. I have also found that getting outside – whether it’s to do some yard work, take a walk, or just sit on my deck and listen to the sounds of the outdoors – also helps me forget what is stressing me and makes me much more relaxed. If you haven’t yet, find things to do that you enjoy that take your mind off of the stresses of your life. It can be remarkably helpful!
For some, it may take more than that. I also believe in talking things out. For some of us, a good friend or a trusted adult can be that person. Often just verbalizing the things that are stressing us – whether or not there is a “fix” for them – can relieve some of that internal anxiety. Having someone else merely validate what we are going through can also be very helpful. Sometimes we may need to find a trusted confidante to help us figure out a solution for whatever is stressing us. And sometimes, we need a professional to help us through the difficult times of our lives. There is absolutely nothing wrong with finding a professional – whether that is a psychiatrist, therapist, counselor or pastor – to help us sort through the anxiety or stress we are feeling. In fact, it is a very intelligent thing to do and shows a great deal of strength to reach out for professional help. The main thing is – IF you need someone, you must find someone to help you. One of the worst things we can do is internalize that stress and anxiety. It is definitely better to talk to someone who can help.
I had a coworker at MVAO High School who celebrated all sorts of “Special Days” with her students. One of my favorites was National Chocolate Day, especially if I got to participate in the treats that went with that particular day! I noticed online recently that October 7 is World Smile Day. What a great day to celebrate! Did you know that there is much research that says smiling truly can elevate your mood, and, when you smile, it’s often infectious for other people, who then smile back – and pretty soon, you have a positive domino effect of smiles and elevated moods! I am not saying this will do the trick for everyone in every situation – certainly not. But I do find that if I am a bit blue or anxious, if I force myself to smile and to think and speak positively to myself and others, pretty soon I do feel better. And hopefully, through my smiles and positive words, I have helped lift someone else’s spirits as well. Then they will be smiling and emanating more positivity, which may help someone else, and then… well you get the idea of how quickly that could spread! So – celebrate October 7 – National Smile Day - and share those smiles with as many as you can! You may find that it is a simple little bit of medicine that reaps some pretty good benefits, doesn’t cost a cent, and may help relieve some of your own stress and anxiety, as well as others’!
Mary Joan - ICAN Northwest Iowa Centers
