This entire info offering is about the mechanics of stress, at least that was the bit of inspiration that got me going. I’ve been meaning to toss in a new info kernel as grist for the mill for a while now. Take a look at what’s happening around us now. It sure seemed like a long time of being constantly aware of Covid 19’s influence on our lives. For me – that was a long term stressor and it still is on the stage in my little theatre, however with the vaccines getting doled out and case numbers crashing amongst those who have been vaccinated…Covid is no longer playing the lead as a ‘Hot Button’ for me. I’ve been jabbed twice now.
Wild fires have now taken over as my primary stressor! Was there even a moment of quiet calm between these two storms? I don’t think so. The threat of Wild Fire is another long term stressor, and let’s be clear – I am not even in harm’s way at the moment. The fires are in the News everyday…with towns being burned, thousands of homes being evacuated and a veil of smoke blanketing almost everywhere. Is there anyone that this isn’t being affected right now!? I can tell you that I am stressed by it and having to put my resilience resources into practice everyday.
An ounce of prevention is definitely worth a 0.5 kilograms (~a pound) of cure. Front load for long term stressors with resilience training because if you wait until something breaks under the strain – it can be a very long road back to health. Resilience strategies are a part of this site. Pick one and build it into your practice. The rewards can be felt quite quickly.
In the meantime, for some instant relief I go to a simple breathing exercise. Try to clear my mind…and
- Breathe in to the count of 3
- Hold for a count of 3
- Breathe out to the count of 3
- Repeat 3 times
Stress Smarts 