I am so stressed.
In the past week, how many times have you used this phrase, or others like it? I am stressed, I am worried, I am anxious, I am scared, I am exhausted. Sometimes these words just tumble out. But what if I told you, that you aren’t any of these things?
You are simply human. And you are simply experiencing emotions.
I have spent a lot of time this year experiencing Stress. For the first time, in a long time, I have felt caught in a negative cycle. I know it will end, I know I will get through it, but nonetheless it has been wearing on me.
One thing I have learned about myself, is that it doesn’t help to push things aside. Keeping your chin up, only gets you so far. But at the same time “leaning in”, a phrase I am sure you have heard, doesn’t seem helpful either. So, I have developed a new strategy. I refer to it as “Standing in Solidarity.” It is the middle road. I am not pushing away, nor leaning in. I am standing with the emotion.
This is a practice in noticing, and it is very simple. When you feel an emotion arise, you just notice it. You don’t judge it. You don’t analyze it. And you don’t dive deeper into it. You just allow it.
As I began to work with this practice, I felt the negativity fade much more quickly. And instead of judging, I began to think about ways I could show myself more compassion.
Below is a list of loving things that you can do for yourself. They are not a solution for Stress. (hint** there isn’t one). They are more like a “throwing in,” with the stress and softening the space around it.
A Warm Beverage
Groundbreaking way to start, I know.
But did you know that warmth is one of the most soothing ways to ease your nervous system? Think about the way it feels when you go outside and feel the warmth of the sun on your face. It is magical! But when sun isn’t available, a warm drink can also produce the same effect.
A plain old glass of warm water is my go-to. Add in a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of pink Himalayan sea salt and you have the perfect hydration cocktail – that also relieves stress. This combination provides mineral balance as well as Vitamin C, improves digestion and promotes proper absorption. The warm temperature will also open up your blood vessels, improving circulation, immune function and your body’s ability to take in essential nutrients. Long story short….drink your water!
If you are looking for something a little more snazzy, try my Golden Milk Latte. You probably have the ingredients in your pantry. Check out the recipe below!
I know Oat Milk gets a bad rap, but I love it. I use Sown Oat Milk, which is Organic and Gluten Free.
Another great caffeine-free option are these Organic Herbal Teas by Numi. The flavors are so soothing.
A Warm Bath
So what about getting IN the warm water? A hot bath with a heavy dose of Epsom Salts is perfection for me. Again, the vessel dilation produced by the warm water is so beneficial! It temporary lowers your blood-pressure, relaxes the body and reduces cortisol (the stress producing hormone).
I love that Dr. Teals has come out with so many different scent profiles. I absolutely love their Holiday Edition, but right now my favorite is the Glow and Hydrate.
If you don’t have the time, or don’t like baths, I have something else you can try. Jump in the shower and direct the nozzle towards your chest. Let the warm water drum on your chest for a few a minutes. This area of your body has lots of sensory receptors, and it is a quick way to feel grounded and calm.
Walk it Out
We all know that movement is good. But what you may not know, is that a 30 minute walk may be the key to feeling more energized. Recent studies have shown that low impact, or Zone 2 cardio, is actually the most beneficial form of exercise. This is aerobic exercise that is done at 60% of your max heart rate. Consistent walking in zone 2 can build your aerobic base. As a result your body will be better able to produce energy and fight fatigue.
But science aside, the most beneficial part of walking for me, is getting OUTSIDE.
If you have watched my stories lately, you have heard me repeat the phrase, there is no bad weather, just bad clothing. Many of us avoid going outside in the winter, and this is when we actually need it the most. On running days, when I am outdoors super early, I notice a dramatic difference in my mood throughout the day. I also notice a difference in my children. Everyone feels lighter and less irritable after a good dose of fresh air.
Invest in couple quality layering pieces, and you are good to go.
New Balance Running Jacket (pricey but a great piece!)
Magnesium
You have probably been hearing a lot about Magnesium recently, and for good reason!
Over the summer I started taking a powdered Magnesium supplement at night to help combat restless leg. I loved what it did for the RLS, but didn’t love what it did to my stomach. After some research I discovered that Magnesium helps to achieve deeper sleep, promotes health immune response, reduces bloating, provides building blocks for strong bones and balances stress response. However, I also learned that there are 7 different forms of Magnesium and it was important to be taking each one.
I decided to try a new supplement called Magnesium Breakthrough, which has all 7 forms. I instantly noticed a difference in my sleep and stress levels. I truly believe this product has helped me. If you want to give it a try use the code Megan10 at checkout for a discount!
To-Do List
Are you a list maker? Filling out my planner each day is definitely one of my favorite things. I reserve a section for journaling, and I also have a bulleted section that I use for my daily list.
Each day I create a list of 4-5 tasks that I want to accomplish. I also have a longer running list that I create monthly. I think it is important to keep the daily list small and concise. Just focus on a few important, time-sensitive items that can’t wait. A lot of time the things I am writing are my least favorite things, but I feel so much better with an action plan. I no longer feel my mind racing with “all the things I need to do.”
Instead, this simple routine immediately sets my mind at ease.
Alone Time
Alone time has become sacred for me. It is my only chance to truly tune in and think. It is also really hard to come by.
As a busy mom, I rarely take time on my own. But I have realized that if I don’t give myself this time, I won’t be able to fully give to my children. When I talk to other moms about this, they almost always say, “I don’t have the time.” Trust me, you do. The secret is in your mornings!
I have never been more grateful for the early morning habit that I cultivated last year. I was finding that my time was dwindling more and more as my children got older. Afternoons are packed with sports, clubs, homework, and friends. And of course, most of the evening is spent prepping to do it all again tomorrow. The only real time I could find was in the mornings.
Waking up just 30 minutes earlier can make a huge difference. Sometimes I light and candle, or burn Palo Santo. I sit quietly, sip my warm water and take my time. It is my morning reset.
Hug Yourself
A hug can provide a lot of comfort, even if it is from yourself.
May sound silly or even a little awkward, but it works.
Next time you are feeling burned out, show up for yourself in a small way. A gentle embrace.
You are safe,
its okay,
and this too.
See you soon,
