We're a week out from the election and it seems like people on both sides are experiencing quite a bit of stress. I'd like to give you some tools and motivation to make sure you're taking good care of yourself.
First, a Cliffs Notes lesson on Stress, Your Brain, and Your Body.
When you are stressed, your brain releases stress hormones that affect the functioning of almost every system in your body. Even though we don't typically realize it, we're constantly affected by small stressors such as deadlines, traffic, the deluge of social media, raising a family, interpersonal relationships, etc. Sometimes that mild chronic stress is compounded by bigger stressors, for example, a car accident, a family emergency, or a problem at work.
Unfortunately, we're often either unaware of or in denial about the effects of chronic stress on the body. Chronic stress can lead to all kinds of health issues, from something as mild as stomach upset to something has serious as heart disease.
So I encourage you, during this time of change and stress, to please take care of yourself. Here are some of my favorite ideas for self care:
- Book a relaxing massage
- Take a bath in the tub with your favorite salts, bubbles, or oils
- Meet a friend for tea and a tasty pastry
- Enjoy some quiet time and read a book
- Dive into a hobby, either a new one or an old favorite
- Get a good night's sleep with fresh sheets on the bed
- Do a DIY spa treatment, like a facial, manicure, or deep conditioning hair treatment
- Practice meditation or yoga (of course!)
Please, please, make time to take care of yourself!
You know how during the safety announcement on airplanes, the flight attendant tells you that, in case of emergency, to put on your own air mask before helping the people around you? It's the same for self care. In order to do your life's work, care for your friends and family, and practice random acts of kindness, you have to make sure your own needs are met first.
Make a point to do something nice for yourself this week! And for bonus points, post a comment (or a photo!) on our Facebook page and let us know what you're doing to care for your self!
Lots of Love,
Zelinda
