There’s anxiety everywhere! How can we manage stress during this crazy time? Here are a few tips to reduce stress and embrace this time with resiliency.
#1. Take a breath. Concentrate or pay attention to your breathing; in through the nose, out through the mouth. Put your hand on your abdomen and feel it expand when you inhale and deflate with exhalation. Deep, mindful breathing promotes relaxation and also reduces some stress. Do this several times per day!
#2. Nourish your body. During stressful times, be mindful that your body needs all the help it can get by eating foods with power-boosting nutrients. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. (Easier said than done!) Use a straw and/or water bottle or cut up fruits or veggies to add to your water such as cucumbers, limes, oranges. Drink up!
#3. Get enough sleep. If you can’t fall asleep, try not to obsess on how important sleep is. This is a perfect time to meditate by focusing on your breathing or repeating a single work such as “one.” Read a boring book until you get drowsy. Write down your thoughts and/or worries before going to bed. Sleep tight!
#4. Light exercise. Exercise is one of the best ways to manage nervous energy. Take a walk or ride bike around the neighborhood. (The sunlight and fresh air are great for the immune system and can increase your mood and decrease anxiety level.) If the weather is not cooperating, do some exercises in your house. Marching/walking in place, jumping rope, dancing to your favorite song or performing some squats are a few examples of getting your heart rate up without using equipment. Just get that body moving!
#5. Be nice. Most of all, be kind and compassionate to others. Be generous with your kind words and kind deeds. They do not go unnoticed and we all benefit from them.
About the Author:
Krista Becker, PT, MPT
Krista Becker, PT, MPT is a western North Dakota native. She holds a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Mary. For the last 14 years, her career has focused on outpatient orthopedics and geriatrics with a special interest and additional training in women’s health. She holds a Kinetacore Level I Functional Dry Needling certification.