Stress Reduction - 5 Top Tips For Women

No one is immune to stress, but  for  women , stress can come from so many different places and be very intense. While stress is a nuisance, it can also have detrimental effects on relationships, home life and career, not to mention on your health.

If your life seems particularly stressful, or if you are having problems dealing with stress or are feeling like stress is negatively affecting your work, relationships or health, it’s time to try to find some constructive ways to deal with it. 

Try the following  tips  that are specifically for helping  women  reduce stress:

1. Take time for yourself.

It may seem impossible right now, in your over-stressed state, but every person needs to have downtime when they can relax and unwind from the stresses of the day.  This is especially true for stay-at-home moms and others who never seem to get a “break” from their relentless schedules.  At least twice a week, and more if possible, take time to do something that you love to do – something that helps you feel alive, content, happy, and centered.

Maybe you could fit 15 minutes of yoga in before your morning shower?  Maybe you prefer to soak in the bath without interruptions, go for a solitary bike ride, or have lunch with a supportive friend. Or you might prefer just curling up on the couch for an hour before bedtime and actually reading one of those books you’ve been promising yourself.  Reading is a great stress buster!

2. Get your family to help out.

If you do everything all the time, everyone else will get used to not helping out.  So give the kids chores to do ask your husband or partner for help. Explain that if you get a break, you won’t be so stressed and this will probably lead to everyone being happier.

3. Accept good enough is good enough.

Perfectionism is very stressful.  Just accept that “good enough” is good enough.  If the house isn’t dusted right this second, does it really matter?  So what if you buy a cake for the school fete when everyone else home bakes their own?  It will still sell and raise money – and wasn’t that the point?

4. Take care of your body. 

The foods you eat can actually make you more stressed.  Eat healthy food, with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables; make a commitment to get enough exercise, walking is good; and get 8 hours of sleep every night.  Do this and you will notice the difference in your stress levels. 

5. Learn to say no.

You can turn down invitations if you’re tired or worn out.  You don’t have to take your friend’s kid for a play date when you already have enough on your plate.  You can say no to another volunteer project.  Saying no can be very difficult especially for women, who are often conditioned by society to be the ones giving the help and support.  However, it is something you need to practise if you are serious about getting your stress levels down.  Look in the mirror and say “Sorry, I’ve got other plans this time, but let’s arrange something for next week (or whenever)”.  Your friend might not like it, but you will feel empowered and that means a little less stressed.

Women are subject to stress from so many places. Remember that you have to care for yourself first. If you are ill and over-stressed, how will you be the support system for your family?  Take time to manage your own stress.  When you do, your stress levels will reduce and you’ll be happier and more relaxed.  After all, if you don’t manage your own stress, who will do it for you? 

Source by Susan Owen-Thursfield

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Stress Reduction - 5 Top Tips For Women