It seems like people wear stress like a badge of honor in modern-day society.
Maybe that’s because stressed-out people are falsely perceived as busy and successful. With 50+ hour work weeks, 24/7 connectivity, and little time for proper self-care, it’s easy to understand why people are so stressed. But, how can you break free and find inner peace in a society so consumed by stress?
To start, you have to understand that not all stress is bad stress. In fact, stress is an unavoidable part of life. Situational stress can help you stay safe in dangerous situations. It can also work as a motivator to meet a deadline or reach a new goal.
Unfortunately, for some people, the stress from work (and life in general)
continues even when the danger, deadline, or situation passes.
Chronic Stress
We know a little stress is OK but how much stress is too much?
When stress and anxiety don’t pass, it’s time to take a closer look. Chronic stress can affect all areas of your life and health mentally and physically. This is because stress releases cortisol which, in elevated levels, can put you on the path to things like high blood pressure, diabetes, depression and more.
One Solution: Mindfulness
Stress is a powerful thing! It affects the way you think, act, and live. Chronic stress can wear you down and take a toll on your overall health. The good news is you can change your mindset and change your life.
Practicing mindfulness is a helpful tool in combating stress. It helps you stay focused on the moment at hand so you can let go of all the ‘what ifs’ and stay grounding in the present.
The next time you feel stress building, try using mindful techniques. Identify and acknowledge your thoughts. Try to focus on what you can control and take active steps to relieve your stress that result in productivity and better focus on the present.
At Peg Walsh Psychotherapy, we understand how stressful life can be. We’re here to help you break the stress cycle and move forward in prosperity and peace.
