STRESS SUCKS! AND WHEN IT SHOWS UP, IT AFFECTS EVERY AREA OF OUR LIFE.
Have you ever been around someone that has hit their limit? They’re no happy camper. We’ve had our share of bad days from overloaded schedules to finding out that I need a root canal! đŁ
While we were planning our wedding, we got really good at using each other as emotional punching bags, which come to think of, is very counter-productive. My best friend, my team mate, the one person who has my back, I am absolutely destroying with my tone and choice of words⊠all because I’m stressed out. Make sure youâre not making excuses to take out your stress on your fiancĂ© because it will quickly destroy your trust and intimacy you have.
HERE ARE 12 IDEAS ON HOW TO SOOTHE THE RAGING BEAST INSIDE WHEN STRESS COMES:
Learn How to Take a Deep Breath
Breathing exercises are incredibly helpful when you feel stressed or anxious and work immediately. Controlled breathing not only keeps the mind and body functioning at their best, but it can also lower blood pressure, promote feelings of calm and relaxation and help you de-stress.
Get Rid Of Unnecessary Spending
Financial stress can lead to a lot of fear and anxiety, especially when you’re planning for a wedding and honeymoon. Get on a budget, stop overspending, and be money wise.
Create a Bedtime Routine
Before you go to bed, stretch, meditate, or read a light-hearted book. Turn off technology at least an hour before going to bed to help your brain settle down for sleep.
Limit Your Caffeine Intake
The problem is that caffeine has been shown to inhibit levels of serotonin in the brain, and when serotonin levels are suppressed, you can become depressed and feel irritable. If you still need a pick up in the middle of the day, switch to green tea.
Get Rid of Clutter
A messy home or office can make you feel out of control and anxious. When there are messes everywhere, it’s difficult to know where to even start cleaning and then you just feel overwhelmed. Start with one area and move to the next. Small wins are still wins! #mariekondo
Get Enough Sleep
Sleep deprivation is one of the biggest factors of stress. For those of you who have a hard time shutting off your brain at night (that’s our big problem!) make a rule to turn off your phone after 9pm and if youâre brave enough, leave it outside of your room. Consider purchasing a sound machine and investing in some ear plugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Give Yourself Alone Time
I know most of you are reading thinking, âYeah right, how is that ever going to happen?!â And what I have to say to that is: you can’t afford not to create the time to be by yourself. Carve out at least 15 minutes of alone time a day for just you to unwind. No exceptions to this rule! Meditate, pray, sleep, read, or take a walk.
Try Lavender Oil
Lavenderâs aroma is great for relaxing and winding down before bedtime. Add it to your bath or diffuse it to create a calming and comforting environment. So simple but this seems to work in our home and with many of our friends.
Know That Your Feelings Are Not Facts
Negative thoughts cause negative feelings. Just because you feel a certain way, does not mean that it will happen.
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Donât blow things out of proportion by going over them time and again in your mind.
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Try to be reasonable. Accept that bad feelings are occasionally unavoidable and think of ways to make yourself feel better.
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Learn. Notice how grief, loss and anger make you feel and which events trigger those feelings so you can prepare in advance.
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Let go of the past. Constantly going over negative events robs you of the present and makes you feel bad. Choose forgiveness.
Think Positive Thoughts
Every time your brain starts thinking of negative thoughts, write down 5 positive things about your life. This actually tricks your brain into focusing on the good in your life.
Exercise Regularly
Aerobic activity lowers your level of stress chemicals and allows you to cope better with negative emotions. You don’t have to join a cross fit gym or learn how to Zumba to get active. A hike, a swim or a yoga video are all great options.
Listen to Quiet Music In The Car
Studies show that listening to classical music is best while driving. It instantly releases fear, doubt, worry and anxiety.
FINAL THOUGHTS:
In the right context, emotions like anger, grief, sadness and jealousy are perfectly normal. Long lasting bouts of negative emotions can stop you from enjoying life. Coping strategies can help to curb persistent negative feelings so we encourage you to start implementing all of these to your daily routine. Allow yourself to slow down, share your fears with your fiancé and ask them to give you a back rub.
Written by Meygan Caston
Meygan Caston is the co-founder of Marriage365 and lives in Orange County California with her husband Casey and their two children. She loves the beach, dance parties, writing, spa days, and helping couples connect in their marriage. Her life-long dream is to walk the Camino, have lunch with Brené Brown and get on The Price is Right
