Research proves that chronic stress is unhealthy – symptoms include headaches, stomach issues, sleeplessness, illness, weight loss, weight gain and depression.  In my sometimes stressful, but relatively stress-free life, I’ve managed to experience a few of those symptoms and also deduce the following:

1. We all have stress (tell me something I don’t know, you’re thinking). But different sources affect people differently.  For me, it’s what to eat for dinner, my family, my job, my 401k, and how to pay for my 5-year-old son and unborn child’s college educations.  I think my stresses are fairly normal.

2. We all live with our stresses.  Does your stress drive you? Does your stress stop you?    Some days, I cope well and other days, I have to work hard to keep my stress from taking over.  The good news is I’m aware of my stress so I know when it’s taking control and I need to make use of some of my stress tactics.

3. We all deal with our stress (for better or worse). We all find ways to make it through each day, although some coping mechanisms are healthier than others.  Some people internalize their stress and develop symptoms; while others use their stress to strengthen their character and feel better about themselves (I’d like lessons in that!).  Some people shop excessively and some people overeat. Others take extended bike rides or spend daily time in meditation.  I think the solution to managing your stress is acknowledging your triggers – get to you know yourself.  Find out what brings you back into your own skin when you’re feeling stress.

4. What works for me? I love walks, along the Seattle waterfront, in my neighborhood in spring or fall, and even on the small track at my gym.  I love bus meditations (I close my eyes, take 30 seconds and ask myself what I really need – Peace? Strength? Dinner?) and glimpses of Mount Rainier crossing I-90 each morning and evening (I let someone else drive in traffic!).  Or a deep breath and a long drink of water.

During the work day, any movement or stretching seems to wake my body and remind me that I’m living this life and my stress doesn’t have to control everything about me.  I’ve also found that just closing my eyes and feeling my feet on the floor is a great way to know that I’m really here, really in my body.  Yoga once a week is a great help too, as is deep breathing practice.

5. You can live (healthily) with stress.  Stress is inevitable.  What’s important to remember is that you are living your life and your stress doesn’t have to hurt your body or mind.  There are ways for everyone to live with stress in healthy ways.  It’s not always easy (at least for me!) but we have the choice to change.