destress

How to Reduce Stress During COVID-19 (And Other Things We Can't Control)

One major thing this Coronavirus pandemic has called our attention to, is how little control we actually have in life. This has been and always will be the case. Viruses and other threats to our well-being have always existed and will always exist. I don’t mean to create even more anxiety by saying this, but we’re all about the facing the truth here. Even when it’s not a truth we like.

On World Mental Health Day: A Few Favorite Mental Health Hacks

October 10th is World Mental Health Day as observed by the World Health Organization (WHO). I think we could all use some help with our mental health about now so here are a few of my favorite mental health tips in the style of an infographic!

On Taking Breaks

It’s been a minute, huh?

These last few months took quite a bit out of me. So I went into Internet hibernation. For the most part.

Initially I thought I had a pretty good handle on this here pandemic. As much as anyone possibly can.

Busy is the New Black

I can’t remember the last time I was bored. If ever. I’ve always been quite good at entertaining myself and there’s always more I want to do than I can ever find time for. This is awesome because I’m never bored. Life is perpetually a grand adventure (Not all of it entirely desired but adventure nonetheless.) as I’m always learning and exploring.   

But this can also come with the dark side of being too busy. Being too busy leads to feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, and angry. There’s also this weird side effect of not actually getting much done. Even though we’re “so busy.”

Life as an Outgoing Introvert

I've always been a people person. I grew up in a large family with a bunch of noise and activity. I make friends easily. I like to be out and about trying new things, going to new places, and chatting up strangers.

So imagine my surprise when (not too long ago) I discovered that I'm actually an introvert.

Me Unplugged

That’s why I have to remind myself to be mindful of my electronic use. When I recognize that it’s a problem, I consciously unplug depending on what I need at that time. It isn’t always easy (Especially when I have work to do that requires some sort of technology.) but it’s necessary so here’s how I make it happen:

The Importance of Breathing Earnestly

“Just breathe” is more than the refrain in the Anna Nalick song “Breathe (2AM).” Don’t worry if you don’t know the reference. I’ve had this hook stuck in my head for years and still had to Google who sang it.

“Just breathe” is probably the advice I most frequently give when someone is freaking out. And it’s definitely the advice I take most often when I’m freaking out.

How to Halloween Hard as a Grownup

Grownups have a really hard time letting their hair down.

It can seem dang near impossible to put responsibility on hold for a minute and fully enjoy life. To simply be silly and do something only for the sake of wanting to do it.

Yet too much time spent all knotted up with serious face will lead to anxiety and depression.

I see Halloween as the perfect opportunity to combat that. To play pretend, step outside your comfort zone, and let your freak flag fly.