Life can be STRESSFUL.😮💨
Whether it's caused by work, relationships, or personal challenges, stress can have a significant impact on our mental and physical health. Ever had a stressful week and felt like workouts are harder than usual? That's why it's important to have strategies in place to manage stress when it arises. Here are some research-backed strategies as well as some recommendations from our coaches.
1) Identify the source of your stress
The first step in managing stress is to identify the source of your stress. Is it your job? A difficult relationship? Personal challenges like financial worries or health concerns? Once you know what's causing your stress, you can begin to develop strategies to manage it.
2) Practice relaxation techniques
Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Even just a few minutes of deep breathing can help to calm your mind and body and reduce feelings of anxiety.
3) Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is an excellent way to manage stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters, and helps to reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, whether that's going for a walk, doing yoga, or hitting the gym.
4) Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is essential for managing stress. Lack of sleep can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety, while getting enough sleep can help you to feel more energized and better able to cope with stressors. Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
5) Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet can help to support your body and mind during times of stress. Focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and caffeine, which can exacerbate feelings of stress and anxiety.
6) Seek support
Don't be afraid to seek support when you're feeling stressed. Talk to a trusted friend or family member, or consider seeing a therapist or counselor. Sometimes just talking about your feelings can help to alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety.
7) Practice self-care
Finally, don't forget to practice self-care. Take time to do things that make you feel good, whether that's taking a bubble bath, reading a book, or spending time with loved ones. When you prioritize self-care, you'll be better equipped to manage stress when it arises.
While we aren’t immune to it, our coaches did want to share their favorite ways to manage stress. Hopefully, you find something here that works for you!💪
Coach Justin B - Make A List
For me, I get stressed when I'm constantly rehashing all of the tasks I have to do and can't focus on what I'm supposed to be present for. I pull out a notebook or my phone and just dump everything in my brain that I have to do or ideas I have. This allows me to stop having to remember them off the top of my head and focus on the present.
Coach Bern - Go To Therapy
In the gym, we do all the things to take care of our bodies… do the same for your stress, soul, and mental health.
Coach Liz - Journal
I like to write and journal before bed. Write a list of things I’m grateful for when I’m really stressed, reminds me I have so many positive things in my life, and grounds me a bit.
Coach Nicole - Unplug
I take daily walks outside or in nature and spending time in the mountains or at the beach. Getting off social media, especially during more stressful times. Listening to my body and stretching, yoga, or finding other alternatives to high-intensity exercise.
Coach Ben - Surround Yourself With Loved Ones
I like to surround myself with the people I love. Whether that's hitting a workout with my friends at the gym, golfing, or spending time with Kelsey and Maverick, I've always found that the closest people have a way of lifting you up or cheering you up. When all that fails though, there's nothing like some good country music to help relax.
Coach Tracy - Breath
Wherever I am, by myself or with others, this is something within I can access in order to transform my perception of whatever is causing stress in my body. Breathing techniques I've learned along the way, as well as softening the places in my body where I'm holding the most tension at the moment is what helps most.
How do you manage your stress?
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