Stress is a part of life, but there’s stress, and then there’s STRESS. There is a big difference between acute and chronic stress. Now, acute stress? That’s that heart-pounding moment when you almost spill your coffee on your white pants or when you’re about to step on stage in front of thousands. It’s intense, but it’s quick. And sometimes, it even gives you that extra oomph to nail whatever you’re doing.
But chronic stress? That’s a whole different story. It’s like having a houseguest who overstays their welcome – it just lingers and lingers. Maybe it’s that job that’s sucking the life out of you, or those bills piling up on your kitchen table. This kind of stress doesn’t go away when the moment passes. It sticks around, and before you know it, you’re feeling exhausted all the time, snapping at your loved ones, and wondering where your joy went.
Now, here’s the thing – understanding this difference is KEY to taking care of yourself. Your beautiful body can handle those acute stress moments, but that chronic stress? It’s like poison to your soul. In the book “Burnout” it talks about “completing the stress cycle,” and I am here for it! Whether it’s dancing in your living room, calling up your friend for a good laugh, or ugly-crying into your pillow, you’ve got to find ways to tell your body, “We’re safe now. We can relax.” Because let me tell you, you deserve to feel good. You deserve to thrive. And understanding your stress is the first step to living your best life.
- Get that body moving! I’m not talking about training for a marathon here. Just 20-30 minutes of movement a day can work wonders. Dance in your kitchen, take a brisk walk around the block, or stretch it out with some yoga. Your body needs to physically shake off that stress.
- Create your own calm-down ritual. Maybe it’s a warm bath with lavender oil, or sitting in your favorite chair with a cup of herbal tea. The key is to do it regularly. It’s like training your body and mind to switch into relaxation mode.
- Connect with your people. I’m talking real connection here, not just scrolling through social media. Call a friend, have a heart-to-heart with your partner, or spend quality time with your kids. Human connection is a powerful antidote to stress.
- Practice mindfulness. Now, I know some of you might be rolling your eyes, but hear me out. Just 5 minutes a day of focusing on your breath or doing a guided meditation can help calm that racing mind of yours.
- Get those ZZZs in order. Sleep is not a luxury, it’s a necessity! Create a bedtime routine, stick to a regular sleep schedule, and make your bedroom a stress-free zone. No phones, no work, just rest.
Remember, relieving chronic stress is not about quick fixes. It’s about creating daily habits that support your well-being. You’ve got this!
Have an Amazing Monday (and everyday!),
Leanna Fredrich, Leadership, Career and Stress-Management Coach
PS: Interested in Coaching? Please email me at Leanna@amazingmondays.com