Life can be full of difficulties and times where we have to dig deep to find our strength. In the wake of such hard times, it can be easy to feel drained, stressed, and overwhelmed. It is important, even in the midst of any struggle, to be mindful of self-care and to put strategies in place for stress reduction. This article will explore ways in which we can embrace Comfort Challenges with some powerful, practical tips.
Identifying Stressors and Triggers
One of the first steps to take in order to reduce stress is to be aware of what our own stressors and triggers are. It can be helpful to spend a few minutes each day really reflecting on the experiences, or even just thoughts, that inflict feelings of stress within us, so that we can have a clear understanding of what is happening.
S’, Londoner and Authentic Resilience expert, Jera Foster-Fell, suggests that “one of the first things we can do to get a handle on our stress is to understand what is causing it. Being aware of our triggers, and understanding how they affect our emotional self is a great place to start.” Working towards acceptance of our own triggers, based on the understanding that they are merely indicators of our own vulnerabilities, can be an initial step towards finding comfort.
Stress Relieving Practices and Self-Care
Once we have identified our triggers, it is then important to focus on strategies to alleviate stress and a thorough self-care routine. This could include things such as journaling, engaging in physical activities and exercise, yoga, breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices. All of these activities can have a powerful effect on reducing stress and can provide us with moments of comfort and reprieve.
Holly D., an online yoga and meditation teacher, explains that “having a few mindful activities that you can do every day helps to center yourself and bring about a sense of calm. This prepares us to better cope with moments of stress and increase our self-awareness.”
Finding Community Through Shared Experiences
Though it can be challenging to reach out in times of feeling overwhelmed, seeking out community can be incredibly beneficial. A sense of community provides us with understanding, shared experience, and valuable advice. Joining a network of people who similarly feel stress or share similar experiences can provide a space to talk and reduce some of the heaviness.
Speaking on the power of community, Foster-Fell says that “being part of a community of people going through similar experiences can be a tremendous source of comfort and wisdom. It can be easier to find solutions and learn from the experience of others.”
Strategizing for the Future
In addition to having a solid handle on self-care and support system, strategizing for the future can be a great way to give form to any anxieties. Concrete planning and creating goals for ourselves can provide us with a sense of relief and purpose. We can focus our thoughts and energy in a constructive manner and gain a sense of direction. Knowing our steps ahead can help us to hone in on what is important, and thus, reduce stress in the present moment.
Holistic Mind Therapy Expert, Lyubomir Ganev, explains that “looking backwards can be a source of great stress. If you can look forward and break any anxieties into achievable tasks, then it can prove to be empowering. This will give you control over the days and moments ahead.”
Finding Comfort in Difficult Times
Incorporating strategies like those described above can make a world of difference in reducing stress during times of difficulty. It is important to be mindful of our own stressors, to remember to take time to practice self-care, to rely on community and support, and to create plans for the days ahead. It is possible to experience comfort even in the most challenging of times.
In the words of Foster-Fell, “the goal should be to recognize the moments of stress and understand them. It is all about keeping that light within us alive and learning from every difficulty that comes our way.”
Sources
- Foster-Fell, Jera. Authentic Resilience Expert. www.jerafosterfell.com
- D., Holly. Online yoga and meditation teacher. www.holisticholly.com
- Ganev, Lyubomir. Holistic Mind Therapy Expert. www.lyubomirg.com