Lately, I’ve been feeling a bit more stressed at the end the work day which made me take some pause to reconsider how I can create a sense of peace in my day. It can be really tough to cope with the stress of relationships, school or work especially when you are dealing with circumstances that are beyond your control (like deadlines, unreasonable bosses, or stacks of paperwork). Unfortunately, stress is inevitable but the good news is that there are some ways to create some separation between a stressful day at school or work and your home life. This is what has been working for me lately:
- Recognize the Disturbance – I think this is the toughest part, for me, by far. We, as people, tend to be consumed by our own daily stressors and our never-ending list of things to do. Also known as “monkey-mind” this preoccupation with whatever circumstances you are faced with can really be detrimental if it goes unchecked. It’s sort of like you never allow your brain to turn off which can really drain your battery. Make sure to give yourself some pause everyday to think about how you are feeling and recharge. Even asking friends and loved ones for feedback on your recent behavior and attitude can help out quite a bit.
- Create a Division – This is something I’ve been trying to incorporate in my daily schedule lately, particularly after a stressful day at work. Home is where most people feel safe and secure so it is best to try to honor that as much as possible. After a stressful day, take 15 minutes before turning on the television or engaging in other activities and just sit. Creating this quick separation may give you the space to get in tune with how you are feeling, which can ultimately help you decide to do something about it. And if nothing else, you get to relax for fifteen minutes, who doesn’t need that?!
- Do Something you Enjoy – One of the things that I really enjoy doing is cooking. Whether it be for myself or others, using my hands to create a good meal is something that gives me a sense of peace. While it is sometimes difficult to do this throughout the week, I try to make a concerted effort to nudge myself in this direction because I always feel a bit more balanced afterwards. Identify something simple or routine that gives you that same sort of zen and aim to do it, without distraction, on a regular basis.
All in all, if you give yourself the license to practice self-care this way on a regular basis, you may find that you are better able (or even have a higher tolerance) to cope with life’s daily stressors. These tips have really helped me regain some balance lately when I’m feeling a little drained or out of it and I hope they help you too!
What other tips work for you?
Prayer also works wonders….