Written by Dana Wisniewski, MS, Health Promotion Manager at AdvantageHealth Corporation
April marks National Stress Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the impact stress has on our lives and taking proactive steps toward a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Stress can feel like an unavoidable part of daily life. However, unchecked stress can negatively affect our mental, emotional, and physical health. This month, let’s take a moment to reflect on stress, its effects, and strategies for managing it effectively.
Understanding Stress and Its Impact
Stress is the body’s natural response to challenges and demands. While some stress can be motivating, chronic stress can lead to anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, weakened immune function, and burnout. Symptoms of stress may manifest as fatigue, irritability, headaches, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.
Effective Ways to Manage Stress
Managing stress doesn’t mean eliminating it completely, but rather learning how to cope in healthy and sustainable ways. Here are some practical strategies to reduce stress and enhance overall wellbeing:
1. Prioritize Self-Care
Engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading, crafting, or spending time in nature.
Get enough sleep—rest is essential for both mental and physical health.
Nourish your body with balanced meals and stay hydrated.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Try deep breathing exercises, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to calm the nervous system.
Engage in yoga or gentle stretching to ease tension in the body.
Take mindful breaks throughout the day to reset and recharge.
3. Stay Active
Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging, or dancing, releases endorphins that combat stress.
Consider activities like tai chi or Pilates to build both physical and mental resilience.
4. Connect with Others
Reach out to friends, family, or a support group when you feel overwhelmed.
Social connections provide emotional support and a sense of belonging.
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if stress becomes overwhelming.
5. Set Boundaries and Manage Your Time
Learn to say no to activities or commitments that drain your energy.
Break tasks into manageable steps and prioritize what truly matters.
Establish a healthy work-life balance by scheduling time for rest and recreation.
Create a Personalized Stress-Reduction Plan
Since stress affects everyone differently, it’s important to identify what works best for you. Take time this month to create a personal stress management plan by:
Recognizing your stress triggers.
Identifying coping strategies that resonate with you.
Implementing small, daily habits that promote wellbeing.
Email Kristine at kkeykal@advantagehealth.com to get started or call 612.823.4470 (select option “1”).
Let Kristine Keykal, M.P.H, co-founder of AdvantageHealth with over 25 years of experience, consult with you on your employee wellness program.
Since 2001, Minnesota-based AdvantageHealth has been delivering award-winning employee wellbeing programs and fitness center design & management throughout the U.S.