I'm not even sure how to begin writing this post so I'll just start with one word...STRESS!
Do you realize what prolonged stress can do to your body? For the last 6 months I've been living under an almost constant state of stress. A lot of you are aware that I have my own bookkeeping business in addition to Lemongrass Spa. Late last summer, I was contacted by a potential new client who had gotten my name and info from someone else. I was not looking for new clients at the time and really deep down knew I didn't have time to take on another client BUT I said yes. (Can anyone relate to NOT listening to your inner voice?!)
Taking on a new client always comes with a bit of a learning curve and yes, sometimes even a challenge but that is magnified several times when you also include a software change! Since I've come on board, I've spent many long hours and lots of weekends working. I kept telling myself it would get better but sadly, it just hasn't and my body has finally taken a stand and said ENOUGH!
Let me share with you what I've experienced from being under this prolonged period of heightened stress.....
1. Weight gain even though my diet hasn't really changed.
2. Waking several times during the night and never really getting a good night's sleep.
3. A major flare up of my eczema and psoriasis.
4. Moodiness
5. Digestive issues
6. And probably other things that I'm attributing to getting older.
TODAY I decided it was time to TAKE BACK CONTROL so the first thing I did was to give notice to the client that they would need to find a new bookkeeper. (Yes, I did give them a nice long notice to find a new one.)
THEN I reached out to my friend Tammy to chat about supplements that would help lower my cortisol levels.
And finally I did more research about ways to lower stress and am implementing those....
1. Regular exercise...this has not been part of my routine for a LONG time. I've blocked time on my calendar to walk for at least 15 minutes a day...it's a start!
2. Ordered me some Calm Bath Soak! It's loaded with magnesium which helps to lower the stress response and also has anti-inflammatory properties. PLUS relaxing in a hot bath a couple of times a week has to be good for your mental health, right?!
3. Eating a healthy diet...it's been a goal for a good number of months...that starts today...cutting out sugar and empty carbs as well as processed foods. Not only will it help the stress level, it will help the waistline!
4. Social support...that's YOU! Being connected with others in a positive way helps lift your spirits.
I know I can't be the only one who has lived under a constant or near constant state of stress. How have you coped/how are you coping with prolonged stress, and what strategies or tips do you have for finding balance in challenging times?
Kim Harris
Your Lemongrass Spa Consultant
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