Tip 1: JournalOne of my favorite exercises to de-stress that I do on the regular is to write a list or journal my concerns. Worries download from my brain and on to paper in order to clear my head, which helps me gain alternative perspective. It keeps me from ruminating on them too long. Plus, it’s fun to look back and see how those pieces led me to where I am now and how they played a necessary part in my journey.
Tip 2: Monitor your Sugar and Caffeine Intake
Put down the sugar and caffeine! Seriously. It only adds to a spike in blood sugar, inflammation in the gut and overstimulation of the adrenal glands, not to mention contributing to foggy brain, short temper and more cravings the next day.
Tip 3: Learn to Appreciate
Another action happens just before I fall asleep. I think of 10 things from the day that made me feel grateful. They can be as simple as a butterfly that flew past when I was walking to the car, a new client conversation that inspired me, a compassionate driver that let me in when traffic was jammed, or how yummy my tea tasted that morning. It is amazing how it can lull you to sleep and help you wake up in the morning with a more positive, calm state. The trick is to only list things that happened that day. Amazingly, you start to become more present with the little pleasures in your everyday life, even if it’s a stressful life…pretty fun!
Tip 4: Acupressure Points
When all else fails, I take 1 minute for a deep breath, close my eyes, and press the tips of my index and thumb together. This is utilizing the power of acupressure points to create a wave of calm that I feel move through my body and mind. Sounds too simple but it’s effective and easy to fit in. Even if you’re in a meeting, you can press your fingertips together under the table with nobody noticing. Don’t close your eyes though…that would just be awkward!