STRESSED Out? 4 Solutions that Will Actually Help!

Stress can make you forget a lot of things-appointments, car keys, to let the dog in the house. Last week I walked back into my home 3x before I remembered what I actually went inside for. And THIS week, our site has crashed 4x. Just the home page and the header mind you.  AH, technology. You frustrating blessing you.

Can you relate? If we dig a little deeper and peel back that surface layer of stress, it can also make you forget more significant things like your confidence & security, your identity and to be kind to people.  And nothing justifies our actions to ourselves more than, “I’m just so stressed out.”

I can remember clear as day the first time I felt stressed out.  I was in the fourth grade and had just been named “choir president.”

(SIDE NOTE: I would like to insert a public apology to anyone’s cool persona of me that was just shattered)

Apparently, as a fourth grader, I was feeling the pressure of my newly given title and I had a total meltdown on my way to school one fateful morning. I slammed my Lisa Frank backpack like a boss! Bless my parents hearts.  They were very patient with their little overachiever.

Feeling stressed and overwhelmed are very real emotions. And, if you’re anything like me, they’re the gateway emotion to fear.  (I talk more in depth about that in this post)

For many of us, stress and operating under fear is just a way of life. But it doesn’t have to be.  In this world, we will have trouble, Jesus told us that, but you know what else He said? That He already overcame everything that’s coming against you!  So when the attacks of fear and stress start creeping at your door, what can you do?  Well, from experience, there are 4 things that have helped me.

Nurture your Spirit:

Your spirit needs fuel and there are countless ways to do that. Play worship music while you’re getting ready in the morning. Listen to a sermon podcast on your morning commute. But above all, spend some 1-on-1 time with the Lord. Whether you go for a walk and pray, or curl up in an overstuffed chair with your Bible and journal, connecting to your creator will strengthen and sustain you like nothing else.  I like to get up early. Like stupid early. But to me, it’s totally worth it. When it’s still dark and quiet and it’s just me, Jesus, and a cup of coffee, beautiful things happen. I can hear better. I can be still, I can allow His Word and worship and prayer to continually shape my heart. Some days it’s joy-filled and exhilarating, some days it’s tear-filled or contemplative. But it’s always honest and it’s always fueling for my soul and spirit. Carve out time that works for you, it doesn’t have to be in the morning.  There are days and seasons when that’s not the best time.  Lately I’ve needed to accomplish the #2 thing (see below) on this list before I’m in the right headspace to hear from the Lord.  No condemnation here friends! Just prioritize time with the Lord in His word, even a few minutes can change you like nothing else.

Nuture your Body:

When you’re stressed out, your body needs fuel and it needs to move.  To demonstrate my point, a foremost expert in this field…Miss Elle Woods.

So, don’t shoot someone, exercise instead. 😀 If you’re already in a workout routine, stick to it. You can adapt it sure, something is always better than nothing! But don’t abandon it entirely, it’ll only help in this situation.  Plus there’s something very stabilizing about maintaining consistency in an area of life when other areas are topsy turvy.  And if you’re not working presently, here are LOADS of ideas to get you started.  DVD’s, free apps, tips and tricks all for your awesome No Small Life.

As far as fuel goes…put down the sugar, which will make things worse, and whip up one of these snacks instead.

Nuture your Soul:

I used to think I was the only one.  The only person that when they went through crazy times of stress or painful seasons-they need to see something beautiful. Then, reading Annie Downs new book, “Looking for Lovely,” legitimized that artist part in me.  That part that craves hope through beauty and art and needs to see it when life gets dark.

When I’m busy, “soul-care” is the easiest thing for me to neglect.  But I’m realizing more and more that if I prioritize it, I’m WAY more productive and peaceful in the other aspects of my life.

What feeds your soul? We’re all wired differently.  Maybe you need to dive into a good book or be in nature.  Maybe you just need an afternoon with friends and to laugh really really hard.  Maybe you’re like me and seeing something beautiful-whether it’s gorgeous scenery, a well designed room or an art museum- breathes some fresh life into you. Whatever is it, block it out amidst your crazy calendar and do it. A little bit of soul care can make the rest of your moments so much more manageable.

Broaden your view:

What do I mean by this, well, and I say this so tenderly, get your eyes off of just you. 😀 You love me. Remember that.  When our whole world revolves around us, our lives get small fast.  There are seasons that are full, and in those seasons, stretch yourself all the more to do, even a small kindness for someone else.  There will be times where you can pour out in big ways, but don’t get under condemnation if that time isn’t now.  Right where you are, today, tomorrow morning, how can you make someone feel loved and special?  Don’t underestimate the power of little gestures and kindness.’ They speak volumes to weary people.  And in the process, you get a little “lighter” yourself.  Perspective my friends, we can endure just about anything when we have perspective.

I hope a stressful season for you is coming to an end, but until then, try and implement these subtle shifts.  You’re stronger than you realize, and you’ll grow stronger still if you take a little time to nurture yourself and broaden your perspective.

And DO tell, 🙂 What kinds of things nurture your soul?

Until next time,

Meg

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