I’m writing this blog today because in all honesty, I feel like it might be able to help me a little as well as you!
The anti stress benefits of Pilates have helped me and my mental health, and they can help so many more people.
Sometimes, life gets overwhelming. I don’t know about you, but I feel like I am constantly rushing from pillar to post. With two small kids (one that wakes up every day between 4-5am) and two businesses, I’m already pretty maxed out. And, if I dare throw a social life into the mix too, then I’m almost at tipping point! I’m sure I’m not alone here, right?
So, how can we juggle everything successfully, without feeling like we’re being pushed over the edge?
Here’s a few things I’m thinking:
Say no
As much as we want it all, sometimes we simply can’t. Learn to say no to some invites and also only take on what you can realistically handle with work.
Exercise
We all know the positive effects that working out regularly has on mental health and stress, so really, you need it even more when life gets busy! Even if it’s only 30 minutes a day or every other day. I think this is one of the reasons that our short classes are so popular on DPTV. You too can experience the benefits of Pilates by getting involved and active for however much time you have in your daily schedule.
Eat well
You can’t feel good on the inside, if you’re fuelling your body with quick fix rubbish. Healthy eating doesn’t have to be time consuming, but you do have to be a little prepared. Keep your fridge and cupboard stocked up with healthy staples, eat foods as close to their natural state as possible, whack everything in a steamer or under the grill, and cut out processed foods, stodgy carbohydrates, sugar and alcohol as much as possible.
Focus on one thing at a time
A friend made me think about this one. For example: if you’re with the kids, then be with the kids. Don’t bother trying to answer emails and make work calls at the same time, as you’ll end up doing a rubbish job of both. Allocate a separate time to do this when they are not around. Plus playing with your kiddies is actually a good way to switch off from the real world!
Less time on the phone/laptop
How many times do you sit scrolling through your phone just out of habit? Technology is great, but too much of it can induce stress. The world isn’t going to end if you put it away for a few hours and actually spend time speaking to people instead.
Take naps/mediate
I know this isn’t always possible, but when it is, do it! If you find it difficult to fall asleep in the day, then use a meditation app to help you switch off. Taking a quick power nap/mediation of around just 20 minutes, has been proven to have a big impact on overcoming tiredness and stress.
Look after yourself and others
Sometimes we are the last person on the list when it comes to care, so it’s no wonder we sometimes feel burnt out. Get your remedies from the health food shop, treat yourself to a massage to relieve stressed shoulders or just get your nails painted and go for a wax if that makes you feel better!
Gratitude
It’s all too easy to be negative and complain about how stressed we are, and about how much we’ve got to do. But negativity only brings more stress and bad feeling. So, if you try (again, I know this is sometimes not easy!) to be grateful for all the good things in your life and state them to yourself over and over, I promise it does make you feel happier and therefore less stressed!
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