April is National Stress Awareness Month

This has been a very crazy week with all the bad Spring storms and tornado warnings, literally blowing through town. Just as I thought I had finally gotten my kids back on a good sleep schedule (post Spring Break), we had to adjust to “camping” in the basement. My kids loved it and had a great time, which is good. I, however, did not enjoy having to sleep on the floor, and worry all night about our house flying away, nor did I enjoy the “camping” prep-work, ie: going through the house and grabbing all my treasured items (to take to the basement) as well as a portable baby potty, snacks, wipes, helmets (as is now suggested by the National Weather Service to guard against flying debris) and other emergency essentials (flashlights, weather radio,blankets, etc). So when I heard about National Stress Awareness month from my friends, I thought-“No way, that’s just a joke. (My friends know I sometimes over-prepare and stress about things.) Oh, but it’s not!
The Department of Health and Human Services actually has a Stress Awareness Page. It states the following:
Stress does not merely afflict your mind; it can also affect you on a cellular level. In fact, long-term stress can lead to a wide range of illnesses – from headaches to stomach disorders to depression – and can even increase the risk of serious conditions like stroke and heart disease. Understanding the mind/stress/health connection can help you better manage stress and improve your health and well-being.
They offer some great ways to combat stress, such as:
- Recognize when you don’t have control, and let it go.
- Don’t get anxious about situations that you cannot change.
- Take control of your own reactions, and focus on what makes you feel calm and in control. This may take some practice, but it pays off in peace of mind.
- Develop a vision for healthy living, wellness, and personal- professional growth and set realistic goals to help you realize your vision.
If you’d like to check more about Stress Awareness Month, the Department of Health and Human Services National Stress Awareness Month page.
What are your favorite ways to combat stress?
HI! I’m a Shana, self-proclaimed Media Mixologist, wife, and mom to two little girls. I love to mix up cocktails of crafts, recipes, wellness, family and business with just the right amount of sparkle to help you shine everyday. So, grab a glass, and let’s celebrate the cocktail of life!
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