Let Go
One of the ways stress embeds itself into the daily routine is due to control issues. It is not possible to control the outcome of everything that will happen. Letting go of a desire for control and realizing a higher power is in charge can be helpful when processing stressful life events or situations.
Patience
What helps one person deal with stress may not help another, but being patient is something many people can do to help cope with stressful situations. Focusing on what can be done, a step at a time, is helpful in living a balanced life. Practicing patience takes focus and determination, an ability to stand strong even in the midst of a storm. Sometimes it takes waiting out events that happen to see the outcome rather than seek to push for a certain result. In the end, the tortoise won the race over the rabbit. He did not win because he was faster, he won because he took his time, went slowly and knew that, with patience (and persistence) he would become the ultimate victor.
Mindfulness
An excellent way to reduce levels of stress in the mind and body is to start a mindfulness practice. Incorporating this into daily life is key. Each day brings new stresses, particularly for those in recovery. Focus on what is happening and let go. Find a quiet place to meditate, do yoga or sit quietly with eyes closed. Breathe deeply through the nose and breathe out through the mouth. Allow the body to feel stress going out by releasing tension in the shoulders, neck and back. Release negative feelings, emotions and circumstances in that moment and think positive thoughts. Done daily, this will soon become a way of life whereby negative events and feelings will have less power over daily life and will seem less stressful over time.
Exercise
Research suggests thirty minutes a day of exercise benefit our minds and bodies. Over time, stress can take its toll but taking up movement helps the body rid itself of the toxic effects of stress. Finding a group of people to exercise with can be helpful as well as developing a solo routine of walking more places rather than driving or simply finding a place in nature that is relaxing. Being in harmony with nature is one way to reduce stress levels by half.
Living a life in balance is about incorporating new routines. Exercise, daily mindfulness or meditation and practicing patience are all great ways to build a healthy lifestyle which reduces stress levels and gives the mind and body time to rest from the daily rigors of life. Over time, it will become a routine to be enjoyed, rather than endured, as it becomes a habit for living well and with positive purpose.
Contact Higher Power at 800.910.9299 for information on health and wellness in addiction recovery.
