Whether planned or unexpected, life changing events happen a few times in everyone’s life. You can be starting a new phase of your life with a wedding or graduation, or ending a way of life with the passing of a loved one. Regardless of the event that changes your path, a new direction can be stressful.
Here are a few tips for getting through it.
Stay in Your Comfort Zone
This is no time to be trying big new adventures or making other life altering changes. One big event at a time will keep your stress to a minimum. Do whatever you normally do to relax and reduce stress. Get a massage, spend time with close friends, or meditate. If you don’t have a normal relaxation practice, it’s time to get one. Learn to mediate or take up yoga; nothing too strenuous. Coming to play with the horses always helps reduce your stress level.
Stay Close to Friends and Family
The people who love you are your rock during a transition so keep them close. Don’t be afraid to ask for their help and support, most people actually want to help, they just don’t know how. Give them something to do so they can feel useful. While staying close to those who care about you, it is also important to eliminate time with people who bring you more stress and drama. This is no time to be dealing with them so cut back (or cut out, if possible) on time spent with people who make you feel stressed.
Share Your Feelings
Keeping your thoughts and feelings locked up to yourself will only cause stress to build. Talk to a trusted friend about what you’re going through. Let them know that you’re not looking for a solution, you just need to verbally express how you’re feeling and you want someone to listen. Bounce ideas off them and share your worries; it will ease your level of stress.
Take Care of Yourself
Skipping meals and losing sleep will only cause your stress levels to increase so make sure you’re taking care of your basic needs through this challenge. Eat, hydrate, get some exercise, and get plenty of sleep. It wouldn’t hurt to take a shower and get dressed either (things we sometimes forget to do when stressed out), the activity of cleaning yourself up will help to boost your mood and make you feel better.
Laugh
Laughter really is the best medicine; especially during times of stress. Share funny memories with friends and family or find a movie or video to laugh along with. Let go of the idea of “perfection” right now and just let things be as they are.
A life changing event will usually bring some immediate stress, yet it doesn’t have to be long-term. If you’re looking for another way to relieve stress and accept your new path in life, let’s talk. Equine Gestalt work may be just what you need! I offer FREE consultations and would love to see how I can help you manage the stress of any life situation you may be facing. Call me at 970-682-4405 or email me andrea@witherswhisper.com