Goals for October

I have been extremely stressed and anxious lately, some things I can share - work, school, money - and others I can't. I usually carry a fair amount of stress, but lately it has gotten a little out of control. I've been obsessing over things, trying to plan for things I just can't control, and letting it get out of control. My body aches, my jaw is tight and painful, I am on the verge of tears too easily and I snap at Ross for no reason.

So I've been reflecting and made some goals for myself to try to bring myself back to a calm, centered state of being - body, mind and soul. I want to share them publicly for a few reasons: it will make me more accountable to my goals, I can reference this post, and I would love any support that you can offer.

1. Practicing yoga everyday. Or at least 5 times a week. I used to practice faithfully, but since my surgery I had to take a break and haven't quite gotten back into the swing of things.

2. Meditation. This isn't something I have ever tried, but why not? I decided to try a free trial at yogaglo.com - and they have lots of videos with meditations. I'm going to see if it does anything for me.

3. Walking. I love the brisk fall weather, the changing leaves, and I love going for evening walks to watch the sunset. It's also a good time for Ross and I to talk without distractions.

4. Massage. At least twice this month, if not once a week. I have a dear friend who offers me a student discount, and I appreciate having someone who I can trust with not only my body but my spirit as well.

5. Drinking more herbal teas. Like chamomile, peppermint and ginger.

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6. Saying no. I don't have to work extra hours or commit to extra things if it stresses me out. I'm going to find the power to say no, and to take time for me.

7. Bake. Baking and cooking bring me joy! I love working with my hands and watching a meal, or a loaf of bread come into being from start to finish. This is a meditative process for me as well.

8. Prayer and Scripture. It seems so obvious, but how easily one can forget this simple act of faith.

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" -Matthew 6: 25-27 

What do you do for stress relief?

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