It is widely accepted that stress – or distress – can have a negative impact on our mind and body (and we believe, spirit).  A certain amount of stress can be good; it motivates us to perform in our daily lives.  But when stress becomes distress, in addition to the negative impact on our bodies we also often experience an increase in our negative emotions.  These emotions can in turn create excess energy which can create further distress on our overall wellbeing, if not released.

Stress and what causes it differs for each of us as much as how we each choose to deal – or not deal – with it.  While some people thrive under pressure with imposed deadlines, it can be devastating for others.  And there is no ‘right or wrong’ in what’s stressful for one, and not another.  That same person whose head spins under deadlines might love looking after a room full of young children, while that would send others into a state of intense fear (or even shock!).

What’s most important is that we are each aware of what distresses us and what works effectively for us to relieve at least some of that stress.  Regular regimes of deep breathing and meditation are certainly excellent if you are able to incorporate such a practice into your life, but if you feel overwhelmed at the thought of having to ‘do’ something else or start something new in your journey toward ‘betterness’, relax – if you can start with a commitment to making the moment better, you’ll be well on your way.

Of the many thousands of thoughts each of us think everyday, many of those thoughts are based in either the past or future – ie. worrying about the future or re-living moments from the past.  But it is the quality of each and every moment we are in that makes up the experience of our lives.  Take Shira’s Mom, Melanie – she used to say “60 seconds of tears girls”, allowing time to express and validate their emotions but choosing to make most of her moments joyful.

The great news is that the choice is all yours.  Do you need 20 minutes a day to be a wreck?  Set a timer and give yourself that space.  And then do something that brings you joy and gives you the opportunity to blow off some of that energy that got you wound up to begin with.  Whether you’re feeling frazzled, anxious, hyper or sad, activity allows you to expel energy.  And when you do something you enjoy, you’re redirecting that energy into positive play.

Point to Ponder
Take a moment now and think about what kind of activity you could engage yourself in – easily – in those moments when releasing some stress would benefit your wellbeing.  Does cleaning and organizing a drawer help you to relax?  Does working on your car or out in the garden bring you joy?  Do you play a musical instrument or love to sing or dance?  Let your child come out if you can – we’re never too old to color with crayons or skip rope.  If you love to write, blogs are a great form of self-expression and way to be heard (check out Shira’s Choosing Joy blog).

Whatever the activity, we’re confident you’ll find it easier to address what’s challenging you once some of that distressing energy has been released.  Even if the activity you love is doing the dishes!

The American Institute of Stress is a great source of information on stress management (www.stress.org)