The harder you try not to stress the more stress you feel.

Ever hear yourself say this under your breath?

Stress is a natural part of life, but sometimes the harder we try to avoid it, the more stressed we become. This phenomenon, known as “paradoxical intention” or “reverse psychology”, can occur when we put too much emphasis on avoiding stress. It can lead to a self-fulfilling prophecy and increased anxiety levels.

Early in my career, I thought i could outrun that feeling, just push through only to have the stress impact take hold in my body! I experienced TMJ (jaw clenching) and a series of complications until I realized I need a “New Approach”.

For many of us, stress has become a constant companion, and the pressure to avoid it at all costs can be overwhelming. But the truth is, stress is an inevitable part of life and trying to avoid it completely is an unrealistic goal.

So, how do we manage stress in a healthy and balanced way? Here are some effective strategies that can help:

1. Practice relaxation techniques: Engage in activities such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to calm down and reduce stress levels. These practices can help you feel more relaxed and centered, and give you the space you need to deal with stress.

2. Engage in physical activity: Exercise is a great way to manage stress, as it releases endorphins, which are natural stress-relievers. Physical activity can also help you release pent-up energy and feel more relaxed.

3. Prioritize self-care activities: Make sure to take care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating well, and doing things you enjoy. Doing things that bring you joy and happiness can help you feel less stressed and more centered.

4. Add Self Regulation Techniques to your daily habits: HeartMath is a scientifically validated method that can help you reduce stress and improve emotional regulation. This technique involves using breathing and heart rate variability to regulate your emotions and reduce stress.

In conclusion, trying to avoid stress completely can lead to increased levels of stress and anxiety. Instead, focus on managing stress in a healthy and balanced way using techniques such as relaxation, physical activity, self-care, and HeartMath. By doing this, you can reduce the impact of stress on your life and feel more relaxed and centered.

If you are looking for find your path to stress management and dont know where to start, let me help you devise a plan!