Here Are Some Guidelines To Help Manage Stress
Recognize and admit that you are experiencing feelings of stress.
Become aware of your body's symptoms and reactions to stress. Don't let them scare you, let them talk to you.
Try to pinpoint what it is you are anxious about. Where is the stress coming from? What happened yesterday? What were you thinking about before you went to bed? If you can't pinpoint it, don't worry about it and move on.
Give yourself permission to feel anxious about whatever it is that is bothering you or causing you stress. "Of course I feel anxious about this problem, anyone would. But how much anxiety is too much?"
If you do know what it is that is bothering you, what can you do to eliminate or minimize the situation in some way so that it isn't so stressful? How can you help yourself reduce the unnecessary stress?
Listen to the dialogue within yourself. Are you filling yourself full of negative thoughts about a certain situation? What could you say to yourself that would feel more comforting?
Listen to the dialogue of those around you. Is someone around you being negative and dragging you down with them? If so, how could you change your reaction to their negative attitude so that you would be less affected by them?
Are you overwhelming yourself with "shoulds" and high expectations? If so, which ones would you eliminate?
Give yourself positive reinforcement for even the smallest accomplishments.
Remember to treat yourself, a soothing bath, soft music, a walk in the park/beach or curl up with a good book. Remind yourself that you deserve it.
