In our first post of this year, we talked about ways to take control of your life, one of which was taking control of your health. Today we’re going to share a few ideas on ways to manage stress. According to The American Institute of Stress, over 100,000 people die each year due to stress related illnesses and injuries. Why are we so stressed? We’re so busy chasing things…career, new house, new car, new…bigger and better… half the time, many don’t even realize they are stressed until they’ve ended up in the doctor’s office or hospital with health problems related to their lifestyle. Add to this a global pandemic, two hurricanes and an ice storm and our friends and neighbors here in SW Louisiana are finding themselves with all sorts of stress-related symptoms. Headaches, stomach issues, insomnia, and depression are almost always connected to external circumstances. Here’s the rub: Stress is a mindset. Think this isn’t true? Just check out these stress busters and you’ll see what I mean…. *Deep Breathing – taking as few as three deep breaths will oxygenate your blood and clear your mind.
*Walking – As little as 10 minutes a day can help you manage your stress levels and improve your mood and increase overall health to your body. *Laughter is another stress buster; it decreases the secretion of stress hormones in the brain and body. Even the Bible teaches us laughter is medicine to the soul. Tell a joke or listen to a funny story. YouTube is filled with 3-5 minute videos that are sure to lighten your mood and reduce the tension you’re feeling. *Writing can calm your mind, help sort out your emotions and often times produce an answer or solution to a situation you’re stressing over. *Work some “Me Time” into your schedule. Whether 15 minutes each morning, afternoon, evening or all three, making time for yourself to mediate or pray can help keep stress at bay. Focusing on your needs, wants and desires, adds value to YOU and you feel less overwhelmed by the demands on your life. *Make lists if things to do and/or goals. By getting the things out of your mind and on paper, you move them from vain imaginings into plans of action – thereby reducing the amount of mental energy used to figure them out. All of these ideas are ways to clear the clutter from your mind and feel more in control of your life. Here are a few other things to consider… Concerned about your financial future? Speak to a financial planner. Even if it’s only to get ideas, you’ll have a clearer understanding of where you are and ways to get where you want to be financially. Concerned about your health? Schedule that appointment with your doctor, therapist or life coach. Even one visit can help you pinpoint areas that need improving and make plans on how to do so. Concerned about the future of your home and family? Talk with your Local Insurance Agent! That’s what we’re here for. Until next time take care and remember....Stress or Peace?.... it's YOUR choice. Tommy Curtis and Staff Disclaimers: Medicare has neither endorsed nor reviewed this information. Not connected or affiliated with any United States Government or State agency Life and Medicare Products marketed through Curtis & Associates Financial Services, Inc. {A Life and Health Agency} Comments are closed.
|
Tommy Curtis
Is an insurance agent with integrity and your best interest in mind. Call to speak directly to him. Contact us Phone: 337-433-1683 Address: 509 7th Street Lake Charles, LA 70601 Office Hours: M-F 9a - 5p (CST) Follow Us
|