Do you know how to manage your stress!?
Has anyone ever told you...

"You just need to manage your stress"

This phrase is thrown around so much, but do you know how to actually do that?

If this was a doctor's order it would be pretty dang hard to follow if you ask me.

Stress is how the brain & body react to ANY demand.

Unfortunately, your body does not categorize between bad stress & good stress.

Physiologically, it is all the same.

Stress is biologically designed to save our lives and serves a good purpose...

But, it’s meant to be experienced in short bursts.

In today’s day in age, people are living in constant stress.

This can heavily influence body composition and the ability to successfully diet by impairing -
  • Hormone function
  • Healthy sleep cycles
  • Digestion
  • A plethora of other bodily functions.

When the going gets tough... stress penetrates your physical, mental and emotional well-being before you even realize that it’s happening because they are ALL deeply connected.

So, how does one "manage" stress?

I guarantee you it’s not as simple as chillin in a pink fluffy robe, throwing on a face mask, and lighting a candle. 

Don’t get me wrong, I love that stuff... but truly managing your stress takes intent & effort especially when you’re initially embedding these routines in your life.

What does managing your stress actually look like?

1. Setting realistic expectations

Do your expectations fit your life?

Are you trying to sprint when you haven’t mastered walking?

Flexible expectations help to embrace the messy momen and help keep the momentum moving forward.

Don’t let the unnecessary high expectations be the thief of self compassion.

2. Creating and adhering to boundaries

Let go of the guilt.

Say no when your plate is full.

Tell others how you want to be treated.

Protect your energy!

3. Taking on the "one step at a time" mentality

The best way to change your life is NOT by changing your entire life all at once.

Slowly introducing changes over time establishes "autopilot" and long-term consistency.

Conquer overwhelm by listing a few actionable items at a time instead of getting lost in the big picture.

4. Forward planning AKA setting yourself up for success

Create a flexible mindset that will allow you to adapt when sh*t hits the fan unexpectedly.

Create a to-do list for tomorrow.

Meal prep.

Fold the laundry tonight instead of tomorrow. You get the picture...

5. Acknowledging your triggers

Stress will always exist. When you learn how to manage the good and the bad stress, it can work with your life, not against it.

Identifying the people, places, and situations that send you down the rabbit hole is a "bulletproof" vest (if stress was the bullet).

So next time you find yourself in a situation that you feel might bring up some unwanted bad stress, I challenge you to ask yourself…

"What can I do to make this interaction less stressful"

If you need help learning how to apply these tips to your life, build sustainable healthy habits, and let go of some of that stress that’s been holding you back…

Apply for 1:1 coaching today!

We are here to help you not only feel your best physically, but build confidence in yourself to overcome your negative stressors.

Stop covering up your inner work with self care.

YOU DESERVE BETTER!

- Dala
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