 | Lisa Vermillion is President and co-owner of Get Fit Bee Fit and Thin and Healthy Weight Management. Lisa opened Get Fit- 4 years ago in Valley Center, after receiving certifications thorough the American Council on Exercise as a Weight and Lifestyle Management Consultant and Certified Personal Trainer. In January, she Grand Opened Thin and Healthy Weight Management in the same location. Lisa not only provides weight loss programs for individuals but she also implements business wellness programs for small businesses and large corporations. Additionally, Lisa is a Certified Life Coach providing guidance for individuals in the areas of career, relationship and personal development. She is available for speaking engagements in the areas of Physical Fitness, Weight Management, or any Life Coaching area (goal setting, positive attitude, sales, etc). Lisa can be reached for questions or speaking engagements by phone (316) 755-1115 or email at mvmillion@yahoo.com |
Mental Health
2013-03-25 14:09:15
Handling stress
A-Stress. Our world seems stressed beyond its limit at the moment. Recounting all the negative news isn’t necessary because it’s on the front cover of every newspaper and the headlines on every TV news report. Beyond that, normal stresses such as deadlines, activities, and relationships continue weighing in. The question isn’t, “How can I make stress go away”, the question is “How can I handle the stresses I face.” Handling stress involves developing a short term strategy, and asking two important questions: “What can I learn from this?” and “How can I use this situation to prepare for next time?”
First, develop short term strategies that will short circuit stress. Many people find, going for a brisk walk brings down their stress level. Taking a “me moment”, doing something you enjoy, reduces stress levels (preferably something besides eating). My favorite tool is simply a piece of paper and pen. Get into a quiet spot, perhaps even play soft music. Simply begin writing down your thoughts. Anything goes. You can throw it in the trash later if you don’t want anyone to see it. Write with your non-dominate hand allowing your subconscious to bring out deep thoughts. Pay no attention to neatness, spelling, or grammar; just write until you’re done. There is something cathartic about getting your thoughts out of your head and onto a piece of paper. The insights you’ll gain and the peace you’ll feel are priceless.
Second, ask yourself what can I learn from this less than perfect outcome? Viewing everything as an opportunity is your choice. Lost your job? Is a cranky boss driving you nuts? Are your children giving you fits? Perhaps this is your opportunity to pursue a career better suited to your passions, learn new people skills, learn new parenting techniques, or meet new people in a support group who have been in similar situations. Asking yourself, “What’s the opportunity here?” allows you control of your life rather than letting life control you.
Finally, ask yourself “What can I use from this learning opportunity that will prepare me for the next time the same situation comes up. Life is cyclic. It’s likely that whatever you’re handling now, you’ll handle again in the future. Taking a hard look at what caused the stressful situation, recognizing the tell tale signs that signal you’re under stress, and brainstorming ways to thwart stress before it begins allow advance preparation so that stress can’t catch you off guard. Look for the learning opportunity rather than remaining stuck in stress by pouring positive reinforcing materials into your mind consistently so you’re mentally prepared when stress shows up
Although stress may show up every day, you choose how you handle it. Picking a short term strategy, viewing stress as a learning opportunity , and using your new found knowledge in your future plans will bring you success even in stressful times.
