Stress Awareness Day 2020

LukasB · ‎06-11-2020

Hey guys,

how are you doing today? As the lockdown 2.0 has just started it can't be a coincidence that it is Stress Awareness Day today.

If there’s one thing many of us are struggling with during the coronavirus pandemic, it’s feeling out of control.

Stress-levels are high as we are used to be able to control every aspect of our lives - we are used to endless choices.

The coronavirus pandemic has taken many of these choices away. For the first time in many of our lives, we’re unable to go wherever we want and live our lives as we please due to the current lockdown restrictions.

But if this wasn’t enough many of us are now facing a huge amount of uncertainty – whether that’s because of family, financial issues or relationships – and it’s not surprising that people across the world are experiencing rising levels of stress and anxiety. Stress can be triggered by so many things and if you think you are at risk why not check here what you should do about it.

So we thought we would post about Stress Awareness Day in these special times. Stress Awareness Day was established by the International Stress Management Association (ISMA) to help provide information on stress, and strategies on how to address it for both companies and individuals. This is your opportunity to start looking after yourself and your life, and break down the individual stressors in your life.

We thought we would gather some tips and tricks on how to cope with stress during the lockdown and how to relax while you are working from home.

1. Avoid the booze

This is most likely the most important tip. Even though drowning your sorrows with a bottle of wine seems intriguing it does not help. Unfortunately drinking alcohol will not help you stay strong mentally or physically as alcohol and sugar (there is a lot of sugar in wine) depress our immune system, as well as playing havoc with our happy brain chemicals like serotonin.

2. Do some exercise every day

Every doctor will agree with this. Try to do some exercise to boost mood and blood circulation each day. It does not have to be a full on workout routine. By creating a mini routine of a run, a walk in the park or doing some sit ups in the living room, you will instantly feel better about yourself.

3. Pick up a hobby

Take your mind off your worries by making sure you allow plenty of time for enjoyable activities. This could include listening to music, reading, gardening, spending time connecting with family and friends online, making your friends care packages and writing letters. Try doing something creative or learning a new craft. Starting a project, like making a gift for a friend, can provide a goal to work towards and give you a great sense

4. Enjoy the small things

Practice gratitude. Despite this being one of the most testing times in history we should be grateful for everyday simple things we often take for granted.Sleeping in a warm comfy bed, plenty of hot water to make tea, books to read, the ability to be able to read, or having friends and family that love us. Just spending a few moments each day to acknowledge these things and feeling a sense of love and gratitude for them are shown to support mental wellbeing.

5. Remember to relax

This may seem too easy to be true but trust me this can help a lot. Breathing the right way can be a way of controlling our inner peace.

Before you eat a meal, focus on doing some deep belly breathing to help reduce anxiety and stress.

Try to use your inner breathing as a way of controlling the fire just holding your tummy and breathing slowing and deeply into it throughout the day will help you to feel more peaceful. And if you want to take this to the next level: Some people find meditation or yoga a good way to unwind.

6. Resolve conflicts

Stress in personal relationships can be a major contributor to anxiety and depression, and any issues may be under the magnifying glass while we’re all being asked to stay at home. Address problems with friends or family and learn how to communicate what bothers you can feel so freeing.

And most importantly: Get support

Selfcare is nothing selfish. If you feel overwhelmed go and get help. Simply talking to someone such as a friend, doctor or counsellor can help relieve stress. Don’t be afraid to ask for support.

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What are your ways of coping with stress during this pandemic? What helps you feel more relaxed and peaceful during these times? Let us know below.

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