How stressed is your life?

Last week I wrote about contentment and this week I want to write a little about de-stressing our lives. So many of us are trying to do more than we can get done in the 24 hours each of us has each day. We feel pressured. Is there a way out? Yes, I think there is.

It starts with deciding in your own mind what is important to you. Sometime when you can get away and be alone for a time, write down what is important to you. Include the purposes for which you would like to live. List short term goals and long term goals. Do you want to live the way you are living? If not, take a little time to plan a way out. Every journey begins with the first step.

Try not to be greedy. We have so many opportunities available to us and that can make it hard to choose. Also try not to fill every moment with activity. Create some space in your day for an “electronic black-out.” Cuddle up with your dog or cat or maybe a toddler and simply do nothing for a time. Your body will thank you.

Try some old fashioned ways to relax. Read a book or put a puzzle together. Play a board game or knit a cap. Feel the stress hormones start to dissipate.