Tag Archives: stress relief

Tip of the Day- Have a Do Nothing Day

Maybe it was all the stairs yesterday, but today I’m feeling a little worn and tired. I’m finding it hard to get through the normal routine of my day. I’m sluggish and mentally drained, so today I’m scheduling a “Do Nothing Day”. It may not be today, but it needs to happen soon. It’s going on my calendar. I’m practicing my response: “No. I’m sorry, I’m busy that day.” I don’t have to tell them I’m busy doing nothing, but that’s exactly what I plan to do. Stress is a killer, and I mean that literally. Every once in a … Continue reading →

Tip of the Day- Hug 3 People Today

If I asked you when the last time was each member of your family had a hug from you and heard you specifically say “I love you”, some of us could answer easier than others. Some of us are more “touchy-feely” than others. I happen to be very closed about my emotions. I don’t like to share them openly with anyone but my family. I make sure my children know how much I care about them; the rest of it tends to slip through the cracks. I make exceptions of course, because I realize that others in my circle of … Continue reading →

Essential Rest

Your body needs rest. Rest doesn’t mean sleep. Rest means taking a break BEFORE you collapse! It means giving yourself time throughout the day for a little mental vacation. Rest helps your body fight stress and disease. It gives you back a sense of balance and patience. How do you know if you’re in desperate need of rest? Ask yourself a few questions: Are you having trouble making simple decisions? Like what to wear or what to eat? Are you feeling like you’re on your last nerve? Are you short tempered and snapping at people who don’t deserve it? Are … Continue reading →

Stress Balls – How Can They help You

Stress balls, or Chinese health balls as they are commonly known, date back to the Ming Dynasty (1368 – 1644). In ancient Chinese medicine, the use of these health balls was so successful that they were acclaimed as one of the Three Treasures of Baoding, China where they were created. Originally, the balls were solid and it was only later that they were designed to be hollow with sound plates inside that make various tones in the high and low ranges. According to traditional Chinese medical theory Jingluo (this term refers to the various energy pathways in the body and … Continue reading →

Dear Fitness Readers

Hey there, do you have a minute? I want to talk to you a sec about all the crazy running we do. Recently, I was talking to a friend of mine and she told me – emphatically – that I needed to take a three-day weekend and just shut it all down. I can’t say she’s wrong, I need a break and I’m already planning to take one the week of Thanksgiving, but that’s four and a half loooooong weeks away. So until then – here are some suggestions for distressing that I plan to put into practice myself: Meditation … Continue reading →

“I Feel Like I’m Falling Apart.” 8 Ways to Cope with Overwhelming Stress

Anyone who has parented a special needs child understands it’s an all-consuming responsibility. As parents (and especially mothers) we have a tendency to pour our whole heart and soul into the special care of our son or daughter. Our instinct to nurture takes over, and we expect to be the “rescuer” who will make everything all better. We run ourselves ragged. We worry; we agonize. We don’t eat right and get enough sleep. And this eventually causes stress to overwhelm our bodies. Stress Took Over My Life In a previous blog I wrote about my own personal battle with stress … Continue reading →

Take Ten… Seconds

Studies have shown that taking even a ten second break in a stressful situation or in the hectic rush of everyday life can make a big difference in your health. A minibreak can help lower your blood pressure, relieve tension, and ease other triggers that contribute to heart disease. Need some ideas for a minibreak? Whether you’ve only got ten seconds or you can spare five or ten minutes, here are some minibreak suggestions to get you started. Feel free to add to the list! Read or write a positive, loving email to a friend or loved one. Take a … Continue reading →

Marriage Tips: An Rx For Laughter

The best marriage tip I ever received was about laughter. I always thought it sounded trite, but after our decade together – I can honestly say that what gets us through the worst of times and what buoys us in the best of times is the fact that we can laugh together. My husband is funny because it tickles him to make me laugh and I have to say – that when I can get him grinning like an idiot, it’s more than a bit of a thrill for me. So if you’re looking for a way to make your … Continue reading →

The Benefits of Massage

If you think that massage is just for self-indulgent, spoiled people… think again! There are many important health benefits to massage — it can help you maintain physical and mental well-being. Massage can calm the nervous system. The rhythmic stroking of your muscles is very soothing, and helps your body relax and slow down. Considering the fast-paced way we live our lives… slowing down is a good thing. Massage can help lower your blood pressure. Massage promotes deeper breathing. Massage improves circulation, so your body delivers oxygen and nutrients to cells more efficiently. Massage stimulates your lymphatic system — your … Continue reading →

Heavy Petting is Good for Your Heart

Spending some time petting or brushing your dog or cat is GREAT for your four-legged friend. The stroking helps stimulate circulation, ease sore or tired muscles, and best of all, lets your pet know that he is loved. A dose of petting helps you bond with your pet and help keeps his coat shiny and healthy. Hey, pets get stressed, too! Does your dog quake during a thunderstorm or get upset when you head out to work in the morning? Some special snuggle time helps your pets relax and feel good. Cuddling with your best friend is good for YOU, … Continue reading →