Stress management and why it matters

There’s strong connection between chronic stress, especially when it evolves into “burnout,” and cardiovascular issues (Vente et al., 2015). Impaired concentration, fatigue, lack of drive and passion, feelings of depression, trouble sleeping, and more are just some of the ways this state can manifest itself outwardly, while our cardiovascular system takes the brunt of the havoc wreaked internally.

So, how to combat this? In addition to sticking with a whole foods plant based diet (which can also contribute to reducing stress by aiding in blood sugar regulation, efficient energy metabolism, supplying rich nutrients to fuel biochemical pathways, etc.), we can have solid, trusted resources at our disposal to help manage stress.

To effectively manage stress, we must tackle it from multiple angles by looking at ourselves as a multidimensional being. When all of our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual layers are well nourished, we are able to respond to life as it happens from a solid foundation of wholeness. From this foundation, we are more resilient and better equipped and prepared for whatever is next!

Fill in the following to create your very own personalized stress management resource list:

1. What resources are currently in my self-care and stress management repertoire?
a. Physical
b. Emotional
c. Mental
d. Spiritual

2. What activities, relationships, responsibilities, events, situations, etc. deplete me?
a. Physical
b. Emotional
c. Mental
d. Spiritual

3. What activities, relationships, responsibilities, events, situations, etc. nourish me?
a. Physical
b. Emotional
c. Mental
d. Spiritual

Look at your list and notice what areas in the first question are lacking and create at least one action step you can do this week to fill in the gaps. HINT: Your answers to the final question will be helpful here! Bring more of these resources to the spotlight! Looking at your second question, ask yourself what can be completely dropped from your life. For example, have you said “yes” to more commitments than you can honestly fulfill? Let something go!

Need help with identifying resources to add to your medicine bag? Check out this article.

Lastly, does your overall mindset need a reboot? When we have a shitty view towards things, we get shitty results. That simple. With these cyclical, deleterious inner monologues, it’s virtually impossible to create sustainable change.  Honestly ask yourself what your initial reactions to perceived stressors are and if you allow yourself to assume habitual roles in certain situations that end up leaving you feeling burnt out.

Above all, practice self-care, be true to your needs, and don’t apologize for your boundaries. Now equipped with your very own stress management resource list of trusted resources, your heart and everything and everyone else in your life will benefit!