Wellness Scope: Stress Management:Quick Fixes

So often our busy lives fly by in a blur. And usually that blur is fueled by extra stress. We stop only when things start to deteriorate. How can we easily incorporate wellness and stress reduction practices into our daily lives? Most likely by keeping it simple and by adding little changes here and there. I prefer a simple but multi-faceted approach:

Stress Reduction: Quick Fixes...

1) Strengthen your defenses. It's been said before but self-affirmations do help. We need to counteract all the negative things we hear or tell ourselves. Think of it as de-programming. Keep it simple. One statement-everyday. When you get up and go to bed. Keep it personal and positive. Make it your daily mantra. "I am here and I am strong"

2) Do a periodic check on your breathing pattern. Breathe big, breathe even, breathe from your diaphragm. We all need more oxygen. If you are taking time to check on your breathing you are re-connecting with yourself and what you need in the moment. It's a good time to re-center yourself.

3) Organize, unclog and beautify your environment. You set the stage. Organizing does not have to be complicated. Give up on perfection. Straighten your piles and get rid of the trash. Just spend 5 minutes a day on throwing a few things away. I'm a visual organizer so I like to have everything in view. Not hidden away. The key is just to limit the extras or the not needed. Keep the colors muted and soft. Let light in and listen to music that lifts and inspires. Our bodies respond on a cellular level to both light and music.

4) Add Human Connection: We are social animals. Some more than others but none the less it is very important. In my opinion loneliness is the number one cause of wellness deterioration. I always recommend taking a fun class, joining a gym, or doing volunteer work. It's not enough just to attend these things. You have to talk to people. In addition to talking don't forget the listening part. Barbara Walters emphasized in her book on conversation skills that people love to talk about themselves and their children. Words are powerful. Choose them wisely. Just a smile and hello are very effective. Don't forget to contact the people you already know. Check in and have that long overdue conversation. I realize that initial contact with people you don't know very well can be stressful but in the long run the added friendships will greatly enhance the quality of your life.

Instant Mood Elevators:

1. Place a back scratcher in your desk. Take a mini break and indulge in a back scratching session.

2. Go find an attractive clear glass jar or vase and fill with M&M's. Place within your view at work.

3. Find a friendly dog and rub it's belly. (Ask for permission first) This works great for both parties. Closing your eyes and just imagining this will lower your blood pressure.

Hopefully these few things will give you a start on your own wellness program. I purposely kept the list short. I think you'll notice a change right away in your own stress level and well-being by just following these few suggestions. Start simple and build on that foundation and wellness will be a part of your day to day life forever.