By: Amber Blake
Stress is often unavoidable when we lead such busy lives navigating work, family and our hobbies. Managing stress is important to maintain your health and to avoid long-term health problems.
While stress is unavoidable, it is how you deal with it that makes a difference to your wellbeing. Managing and coping with stress can reduce the negative side effects that come with it.
Fortunately, there are many healthy coping mechanisms you can use to deal with stress. Here are four common coping strategies:
Relaxation activities.
Take time out of the day to relax by reading a book or going for a walk. Relaxing the mind and body through calm activities reduces the effects that stress has on the body.
Practicing relaxation techniques will have positive effects such as a lower heart rate, lower blood pressure or a stronger immune system. Spending an hour walking around the Snake River’s Riverwalk not only gives you a scenic walk, but improves your health almost effortlessly.
525 River Parkway | 208-529-1200 | www.idahofallsidaho.gov
Take care of your body.
Move your body for 30-60 minutes a day, eat well and plan to sleep for 7-8 hours a night. Taking care of your physical body betters your mental health and reduces stress.
Properly caring for your body makes all the difference when it comes to mental health. Try out the fitness or yoga classes at Club Apple to reduce stress with movement.
2030 Jennie Lee Dr. | 208-529-8600 | www.theclubapple.com
Connection.
Spend more time connecting with others. Go out to lunch with a loved one or call a friend over the phone.
Social interactions are an important part of your overall health. Try out downtown’s Villa Coffeehouse with a friend and enjoy each other’s company over a cup of coffee or tea.
344 Park Ave. | 208-524-8882 | www.villacoffeeandcafe.com
Seek resources.
If the stress becomes too much for you to handle on your own, there are resources available to help. There are several mental health professionals in the area who are trained to help and support those who need it.
Counseling can improve your self-esteem and give you the tools to cope with stress. Harmony Counseling is one of several trusted counseling services in the community that focuses on helping others.
482 Constitution Way Suite #106 | 208-206-2864 | www.harmonycounseling.online