Personally, I'm the type of person who needs to be busy at all times or I'm climbing the walls. Busyness doesn't have to equal stress or chaos, I just prefer to be occupied with things that keep me happy. My blog and keeping up with The Sensitive Life on social media has been a huge outlet for me throughout this healing journey. I understand blogging and social networking aren't everyone's cup of tea, but I encourage everyone to find an outlet of some kind that excites them and brings them peace. I love waking up each morning to emails, messages, tweets and the like from all my amazing, strong followers. It's been so great getting to know some of you and it definitely brings me joy to know that what I share has helped in some way. I created The Sensitive Life for anyone who wants to be a part of a supportive, health-seeking community. Just as much as TSL is mine, it's yours, too! Everyone is welcome to submit their stories, resources, questions, and health advice via email or any of the contact forms on my site. I will share what you share. TSL can be your outlet if you wish! :)
Yoga is another big de-stressor for me and it can be for anyone! Don't let the negative self-talk tell you that you're not limber enough, coordinated enough,- you ARE enough. I did NOT make yoga look sexy when I first started integrating it into my workout routine, believe me. My rationalization for why I couldn't reach past my shins during a toe-touch stretch was that my legs were too long. Overtime, my body adapted to this new, fluid, graceful change and the motions began to feel so natural to me. You don't have to join a gym and sign up for yoga classes to benefit from this life-changing form of meditation. Did I mention I've never belonged to a gym a day in my life? I love yoga DVDs and if you give me wine, I might drunkenly admit that I spent $80.00 on Hip Hop Abs DVDs when I was home alone watching infomercials once upon a time. #Getabs or #Dietryin #Oops
I've been really into resistance bands workouts too. It's important to switch it up or confuse your muscles if you're looking for noticeable results. Whether you like to walk, run, lift weights, swim, whatever- exercise is the cheapest antidepressant/anti-anxiety "treatment" around and yet, so many people don't take advantage of it! During exercise your body releases chemicals known as endorphins, which react with receptors in your brain that reduce feelings of pain, boost feelings of positivity in the body, and can even have a sedative effect. Who has ever said, "I really fucking wish I didn't work out today- I'm really regretting that workout" ..? Exactly. Even if your tooshy burns after a workout, you feel revitalized and good about what you just accomplished. The neuron receptors that endorphins bind to are actually the same neuron receptors that bind pain medications. Clearly the difference is that activation of these receptors by endorphins doesn't lead to unhealthy addiction or dependence. Research shows that regular exercise does lower rates of depression and anxiety (WebMD). I always feel a sense of clarity after a good workout. Exercise is my number one go-to when I'm stressed.
Here to here > --__
The same is true for keeping good company, of course. High, positive vibrations link up with other similar high vibrations. Yes, we call that The Law of Attraction. Always keep good company. What you put out there vibrationally and otherwise is exactly what you will get back 100% of the time! :)
Last but not least, I have to mention FOOD. What you fuel your body with is always going to dictate how it feels and how your motor is going to run. Eating foods that are highly processed or contain GMOs have a direct effect on your mental and emotional health.
Helpguide.org on stress management
WebMD- stress management: how to prevent and reduce stress
WebMD- tips, tools, and strategies for relieving stress/stress management
MindTools.com- stress management tips & techniques
Huffingtonpost- 16 activities that instantly de-stress
MayoClinic- exercise and stress: get moving!
"Exercise and Depression." WebMD.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 13 Aug. 2013. <http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/exercise-depression>.