It’s common conversation at work, at home with friends and strangers. Everyone seems uptight!
On our roads, in grocery stores, restaurants, at work, in the gym everyone is so uptight. We seem to have become an angry nation. Why don’t we all take a deep breath and relax…
Not only are we surrounded by stress, it’s very unhealthy says Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna. “It’s so dangerous stress needs to be addressed and reduced.”
75 to 90 percent of all doctor’s visits are for stress related ailments and complaints and 43% of all adults suffer from adverse health effects from stress. Learning to manage stress can help you live a healthier and longer life.
April is “National Stress Awareness Month” and you may be surprised by the number of stressors in your life that you can eliminate!
I personally believe one reason is we have become a society with low self-esteem. When you suffer from low self-esteem, you take it out on others. Conversely, when you feel good about yourself, you are kinder and more loving and patient with others.
Where do we start?
First, learn how to say “no.” Know your limits and stick to them. Whether in your personal or professional life, taking on more than you can handle is a surefire recipe for stress.
Avoid people who stress you out. If someone consistently causes stress in your life and you can’t turn the relationship around, limit the amount of time you spend with that person or end the relationship.
If traffic gets you uptight, give yourself more time. Be patient and stay off that phone you’re addicted to!
If you’re stressing about something or someone, communicate your concerns in an open and respectful way. When you ask someone to change their behavior, look at yourself and be willing to do the same.
Manage your time effectively. Your lack of responsibility should not end up as my crisis. Be accountable for your actions.
Exercise, practice breathing, try yoga or other relaxation techniques.
For additional stress reduction information visit: www.webmd.com/balance/guide/tips-to-control-stress or contact a licensed qualified therapist.
“You can’t calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.”
Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna
