Tips for recognizing and managing stress

Stress is more complex than the headache you may feel after a long day, the aches and pains in your joints, and the general body fatigue you experience when you feel unrested. In fact, some call stress “the silent killer.”

Stress is a cascade of chemicals overreacting in the nervous system that causes muscle tension and feelings of irritability and exhaustion. Going far beyond how much energy you expend on a daily basis, it can also be the result of persistently worrisome thoughts and concerns. Over time, unhealthy stress takes its toll on our bodies.

Here are some tips to help you recognize and manage stress.

Allow yourself to be helped and supported

People who are struggling often believe they’re the only ones facing an immense stress load or going through a difficult time. Opening up to others can normalize your reactions and help you realize you’re not alone. It can also help you recognize triggers and get more perspective on how to deal with stressful situations.

Practice gratitude

Studies have shown that practicing gratitude can help strengthen relationships, improve mental health, and minimize stress. It can be as simple as taking time to notice and reflect upon the things you’re thankful for. This is true for the small moments as well as the big ones. It’s easy to feel grateful for something as significant as receiving a promotion at work, but you can also feel grateful for micro-moments, such as appreciating a delicious meal or enjoying a child’s innocent laugh. Making a note of even the most seemingly mundane moments and being thankful for them can significantly increase our sense of happiness and satisfaction.

Meditation and stress-reducing activities

Meditation, yoga, mindfulness, cognitive behaviour therapy, and online group strengthening are all useful tools that can help you relieve or better manage stress.

There are numerous styles and methods of meditation you can explore. You can set a timer and try a self-guided meditation or listen to a guided exercise. One method that can support you with stress and worry is mindfulness meditation. This practice focuses your awareness on what you're sensing and feeling in the moment, without interpretation or judgment. Research has shown that mindfulness meditation can reduce the region in the brain known for its role in stress.

Breathwork

Changing the rhythm of your breath can signal relaxation in your body by engaging the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. When you breathe in and out, your body releases toxins piled up in the body through carbon dioxide. Intentional breathing is a natural way to maintain overall balance within the body by reducing stress levels and strengthening the immune system. It’s an incredibly simple tool that you have at your disposal at any time.

Stress is a natural part of life, but hopefully these tips can help you replenish your mental fortitude and get your mind off the source of your stress.

This article is brought to you by Maple in partnership with Shift Collab.