Chris Odle Article - Ideas for handling stress

By Chris Odle & Anne Briffett

I think everyone is feeling a little on edge at the moment. It is no surprise with the doom, gloom and fear that has been fed to us constantly over the last few years. And it is still ongoing. I have known Chris Odle for many years; he was a great supporter of the magazine when we first got going and helped enhance it with his articles. It is no wonder that whenever I feel things going a bit crazy in the community, I turn to him to provide some nononsense but practical things I can pass on to you. We all have issues at the moment. These are not just little niggles; they are real-time things that threaten the level of survival that we are used to. So here are some ideas from Chris and me for decreasing stress and promoting recovery. 1. Take ownership of your situation: Find out the biggest problem in your life. We often focus on the little things when in reality, we are not confronting the big problem. I challenge you to find it as the first step. Finding this one point of confusion will help to initially quiet your space. 2. Gain perspective: Step back and think about your entire life, then consider how today’s stressor fits into the big picture. You may be better off than you think, or it may be a real danger to you. This is your springboard to start solving the real issue. 3. Get help from a professional if the situation warrants it. Over the last few years, I have found that if you do not know how to handle something because you do not understand it, you are asking the wrong person. Find the right one, and things can start to become more straightforward. This is especially true of finances, mortgages or just handling day-to-day expenses. 4. If you are not confronting and you are anxious, write one step towards solving the problem every day and DO IT! If you don’t, acknowledge it and put it on your list for the next day. BUT DO DO IT! This could be a phone call to the mortgage company to see where you stand or a call to the bank or credit card company, but you must get honest and do it.

Here are a few tips for us during such times:

5. Set limits on screen time: Yes, this means not constantly checking emails, texting, and reviewing social media. It is lovely to be part of something, but the something we should be part of is life, not the computer highway. There can be a lot of toxic information on these platforms or unsavoury characters with far too strong a viewpoint that you can handle. Disconnect or limit the time. I guarantee you will feel better almost immediately.

5. Try a mind-body scan: Find a quiet place with no distractions. Sit or lie down. Set a time for 5 minutes if you like. Start at the top of your head and slowly go down to your toes. Notice all physical sensations: hot/cold, itchy, tense, etc. Observe, don’t judge. You can do this anywhere, anytime, to slow down and calm your body. Try using these questions to help with the process. • Question 1: What are you feeling physically? • Question 2: What are you feeling emotionally? • Question 3: What are you thinking? Based on this scan, what have you learned about yourself today? 6. If you have the time, volunteer once a week: This will likely increase the time you spend around people whose company you enjoy. Plus, you’ll be living according to your values, which always provides a nice dose of goodness. I love to get into the orchard a few times a month. It is very cathartic to spend time with the trees and not think. It is also lovely to talk with likeminded people. Chris and I hope these steps help you. I will publish another article in the December issue regarding sleep problems and solutions.

Chris Odle Fitness 07968 083655

www.chrisodlefitness.com

National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer (NASM) Level 3 Personal Training Certificate (UK)