Yes I said it the “S” word. The word is stress and it is no joke. You might use statements like “somebody is getting on my nerves”, “a lot is going on” or “my plate is full”.  Whatever your terminology is many people are dealing with it and some do not have a healthy outlet on how to deal with it. How does one with a lot going on in their lives manage the stressors of life. We have all heard this one “I’m too blessed to be stressed”. I get the saying I understand it’s saying you are grateful for where God has brought you from. However, let’s expand on coping mechanism’s it doesn’t have to be going on a vacation to Hawaii or something expensive. It can be something like finding a quiet place for 20 minutes before your children get home. Or going for a walk before you start work. Thank God I learned to journal at an early age. Writing out your thoughts, visions and goals can help you tremendously. Everyone should have a healthy outlet and it is very important. I am going to list a few ways we can reduce stress, there are many other ways to reduce stress as well in which I encourage you to research.

1.Pray to God

Praying to God is going to be a must. Praying gives you clarity and you are able to give thanks to God. Praying will clarify and reveal things about our lives. God wants you to live an abundant life.

2. Pray for Them

Pray for the person you are having issues with. Easier said than done right. However, it is necessary especially if that person has to be a part of your life. You could spend your days being mad and arguing with that person. Or you can start to pray for that person. I’m not saying they are going to change over night or ever change. Nevertheless at least you have done your part and you will feel better about the situation.

3. Check Yourself

So, you are mad when your car runs out of gas. You have no one to blame but yourself. Sometimes it’s us and we have to own that. Then sometimes its not you. Let’s do a true in-depth assessment of ourselves and look at the over all situation before we take the next step.

4. Read a book

Take a look its in a book a reading Rainbowwww. Okay I had a moment anyway read a book, listen to a book or a positive podcast. It can transform your mind. Whatever your book of choice may be. I like to read the bible and read certain scriptures and have them help me in my life. There are also other books I have read that have been helpful as well. What is your favorite book?

5. Go to the Spa

I like going to the spa it is wonderful. The music is calming and the environment is relaxing. However, an alternative that is free is taking a long bath. It’s just as relaxing just please don’t go to sleep in the bathtub.

6. Take a Nap

Sometimes a basic nap will get the job done. College naps were the best. Now I don’t get to take them as often. However, getting the proper amount is rest is very important. Getting more sleep could help as well.

7. Watch your Favorite Movie

Sometimes watching your favorite movie will do it. It doesn’t matter how old it is. Sometimes you can watch the oldest movie and it is still funny. Laughter feeds the soul. Your body needs it. Whatever the movie might be it could uplift your spirits.

8. Go for a Walk

Walking is a great form of exercise. During a walk you are able to think along with exercise. You can also go at your own pace. It can be for 30 minutes or for an hour depending on your comfort level.

9. Confront Issues before they Escalate

There is nothing wrong with a healthy disagreement. If you keep your emotions bottled up inside they are going to reveal themselves in other ways. All issues do not have to be addressed but pray to God about the ones that do. Sometimes addressing the issue will still not solve the issue. However, by addressing it at least you attempted to resolve the issue.

10. Help Someone in Need

Volunteer at a homeless shelter or help the elderly in your neighborhood. There are always people in need of help. Once you start helping others, you may realize maybe my problems are not as bad as I thought.

11. Play some Uplifting Music

Play your favorite song whatever it might be. What is that one song you can hear and it brightens your day? Make sure to reduce stress it is uplifting. We don’t want you more stressed than you started off. Therefore, make sure the music is going to speak life into you and motivate you. Whatever your favorite genre is whether it is gospel, rap, dance, country or jazz. There are so many songs so pick one!

12. Get Organized

I understand it can difficult to stay organized especially when you have a lot going on but it helps. Let’s try our best to stay organized because it will better help you manage your life. Get a calendar or use the one in your phone and write out important dates.

13. Look at Happy Pictures

How many pictures and videos do you have in your phone? How many of those pictures and videos make you smile? You should at least have one picture in your phone or home that can make you smile. The latest one for me is my one-year old niece learning to walk. I have watched that video at least 15 times. It is just the most precious thing. Find at least one picture that makes you smile it can be from the present or past.

14. Talk to a Family Member or Friend

It doesn’t have to be everyday over the phone when you talk to someone. Having human connection and talking to someone is a great way to brighten your day. You can bounce idea’s off of them and see how they are doing in their lives. Remember some issues are too traumatic and you might need to seek professional help to navigate through them. A trained professional counselor, therapist or social worker can help a person with these issues. A life coach can be a great resource as well.

15. Plan a Trip

It can be as local as Six Flags or international to the Maldives. Depending on what your budget is looking like. If you want to go more international let’s plan ahead and save. It can be girls’ trip, guys trip, family trip or an anniversary trip. Trips help reduce stress because you are in a new environment experiencing new things.

16. Find a Hobby

Maybe you like jogging or painting. Find something that you enjoy to do outside of work. Something that brings you joy and excitement.

17. Journal

Write out your visions and goals this will help you reach your life goals.

18. Laugh

There has to be one thing that will make you smile. Remember that part in “The Grinch” when he smiled and his heart grew a size. What makes you smile or laugh? So, go back to the tips about the picture in your phone, your favorite movie, praying or playing your favorite song. Smile and Laugh it is very important.

19. Count your Blessings

Only you can look over your life and count your blessings. I would suggest you even write them down. No matter how big they may seem or small. I think we all have something we are grateful for.

20. Insert your favorite thing to do here ______________________.