by Lisa Simmons

Keeping everything together as a parent or as a teacher is time consuming & many times stress inducing job. We all know what we SHOULD do to manage stress & be healthy. . . .

=>Eat lots of fruits & vegetables.
=>Follow a regular, vigorous exercise program.
=>Sleep 8 hours a night.
=>Manage our anger through clear communication.

That's what we SHOULD do. But for those of us who have spare minutes not hours -- here are a few more practical suggestions!

1. Start with the facts. -- Take a self-assessment & find out what your current stress level really is. You can take a free stress assessment here.

2. Set aside a few minutes each day just for you. -- Even 10 minutes of solitude, guided imagery, or soothing music can be extremely therapeutic when you're feeling overwhelmed. If you're not sure how to fit even 10 minutes into your hectic schedule you may want to learn The Art of Doing Nothing: Simple Ways to Make Time for Yourself.

3. Get Moving -- I'm NOT recommending an intensive fitness routine. Just try to fit in a short walk around your neighborhood. According to Mary H. Frakes, author of MindWalks, walking can help relieve stress, increase motivation & even nourish your soul. At the very least it should ease your tense muscles & give you more energy.


4. Utilize Respite Care or a regular baby-sitter. -- Time without your children will allow you to have some quality time with your adult friends or your spouse. Trust me, a little adult conversation will make you a BETTER parent or educator. The National Respite Locator Service helps parents, caregivers, and professionals find respite services in their state and local area. The service is also useful when a family travels or must move to another state.

5. Get rid of clutter in your home. -- It's amazing how much better your day will go when you're moving around a well-organized space. Pick up the tools you need to organize your space at www.stacksandstacks.com. Everyday tasks will be less stressful. In Let Go of Clutter, organizing expert Harriet Schechter presents a fresh approach to overcoming the natural urge to accumulate objects and information. Dispensing equal doses of help, hope, and humor, she provides effective and realistic options for anyone who juggles too much stuff, too many decisions, and too little time.

6. Don't bottle up your emotions. -- Join a support group on-line, or start your own local group. Starting a group may sound time consuming, but you can't beat face to face support! A wonderful resource that will walk you through the process of starting your own support group is available through the Parent to Parent web site. Having someone "safe" to talk to when you're feeling frustrated is vital to your emotional health.

7. Make sleep a priority. -- Starting a hectic day un-rested is like starting a marathon with no training. A recipe for disaster! The National Sleep Foundation offers a quick quiz to see if you should be concerned about your sleep patterns as well as some practical tips on how you can get a better night's sleep.

8. Learn some simple relaxation techniques -- The web offers lot of options for learning relaxation techniques, either on-line or through books. Remember, stress is inevitable. Keep stressful moments from ruining your day by being prepared with a few simple relaxation techniques.

9. Follow your nose. -- Aromotherapy is based on essential oils extracted from herbs & can be a comforting ritual when you're feeling stressed. There are many approaches to this relaxing technique. You can light scented candles, add scented oil to your bath water or a bowl of steaming water; or use one of the many commercial aromatherapy diffusers currently on the market. The important thing is to choose a scent that fills you with a sense of comfort & relaxation. For a variety of aromotherapy & other relaxation products, check out the unique items available at Stress Less -- don't miss their Feel Better Kit!

10. If all else fails, take a playful approach.
Ignore your "to-do" list & just spend some time laughing & playing with your kids. Absorb their youthful energy & see if you can re-connect with your own more relaxed & playful spirit.

Finding ways to manage your stress doesn't have to be complicated. Often, a few simple changes can make your day flow more smoothly & your spirit feel calmer. Here's to a world of less stress & more laughter!

© 2001, Lisa Simmons

About the Author

Lisa is the director of the Ideal Lives Project, providing practical support for special needs families & professionals. Visit her on-line at http://www.ideallives.com or subscribe to her free newsletter at mailto:ideallives-subscribe@topica.com