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Mitigating the Harmful Effects of Stress

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There are times when stress is completely unavoidable, such as a high demanding job, training for a competitive sport event, dispute with your partner or friends, or caring for a sick parent, etc. In these specific situations it is not about reducing stress itself, but reducing it’s harmful effects. Below are several strategies that can help:

  1. Time is precious: Feelings of being overwhelmed or having too many commitments can be a major cause of stress. Learning to set boundaries and practice time management techniques can allow you to stay present and relaxed.
  1. Change your perspective: we assign specific meanings to certain events or situations, which can cause a great deal of stress. Re-framing the situation and redirecting your thoughts can relieve stress. For example, starting a new job and new responsibilities can leave you feeling anxious and inadequate or it can be an opportunity for change and development.
  1. Cultivate empathy: It is extremely common to react and take things personally when you are in a conflict with another person. Put yourself in their shoes! Making an effort to connect with their feelings and needs can help you understand where they are coming from. This can alleviate that high reactive state.
  1. Practice acceptance: Many things in life are completely out of our control…don’t forget that. Learn to accept the things you can’t change and welcome what is right in front of you.
  1. Being grateful: focusing on things that you don’t have or what is not okay in your life can start a cascade of negative thoughts attributing to stress. Shifting your focus towards what you are grateful for and acknowledging your appreciation can change your perspective and relieve stress.
  1. Having expectations: Let good enough be good enough. Expecting things to be perfect can steer you away from being in the present and result in unnecessary stress.
  1. Find that spark again. Bring more pleasure, joy and fun into your life. Explore those times of happiness and what that meant to you. 

And of course, acupuncture, massage therapy, and naturopathic medicine can help mitigate the negative effects from stress and help keep you in balance. If you are looking to schedule an appointment, please feel free to contact us today!

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