It seems like everytime I hear from a young mother, she is stressed. I read an article by Holly St. Lifer that lists seven stress relievers.
1. You already know that walking and exercising lowers your stress level but did you know that repeating a positive phrase like “I love my life.” or “I am in control.” while walking can help you chill even more? Why? Repeating the words over and over focuses you on that positive thought and other “I’m so stressed out.” thoughts get pushed out.
2. You already know that vegging out in front of the TV only gives a temporary relief from stress but did you know that dancing or exercising while moving to music (even at home in front of the TV) can help to boost your mood and keep you there? It help to reduce those feel-good endorphins which lowers your anxiety by reducing the amount of stress hormones in your body.
3. You already know that venting to your husband can give you relief from stress but did you know that 10 minutes of hugging your husband gives a long range relief from stress? Hugging releases oxytocin, a hormone that lowers your blood pressure.
4. You already know that eating a pint of rocky road ice cream gives you a temporary fix on your stress but did you know that “healthy fats” like walnuts will help you more? Have one scoop of your favorite ice cream and put on walnuts. They release the stress soothing serotonin and are loaded with omege-3 fatty acids, another known mood enhancer.
5. You know that cleaning the house makes you feel better but did you know that putting things back in their correct places is an even better “stress buster?” The reason is because it relieves tension by giving you a feeling of control and a sense of accomplishment.
6. You already know that “retail therapy” makes you feel better for the minute (or when the bills come) but did you know that splurging on something soothing can make you even feel better? If you are going to spend money, put it toward something truly calming like a massage, as it relaxes muscles and lowers blood pressure and heart rate.
7. You already have called up your friend to gripe and it made you feel better but did you know that journaling your gripes can be even more comforting? Why? When you journal, you do not have to be cautious about what you write and that gives you freedom. It gives you a chance to re-read your gripes and to focus on what is really causing the stress and how you can overcome it.
Knowing that you are giving your babies the unique baby gifts of a CALM, STRESS-FREE mother can be a stress-buster itself.