First thing to know is that the stress is normal and a built in mechanism to keep us alive. Rather than focusing on whether you have stress, think about how much and how long “you stress.” Designating worry time can sometimes be helpful and use avoidance sparingly. The expression “out of sight, out of mind,” only goes so far.
Balance and moderation is key. If there is one universality is that things always find a way of harmonizing. This is where patience truly becomes a virtue.
In the moment things feel like they may last forever. Looking back, experiences are often fleeting. The truth is really in the middle. It can be a natural reaction to consider worst-case scenarios, especially when you feel like triggers are all around.
Give yourself the space to find objectivity, which will stop the moment from controlling you and present the path to congruence.
Finally, it all starts with breathing. A calming breath goes a long way, but like all things needs practice to work as intended. Allocate time every day to practice breathing exercises.
Dr. Isaac P. Tourgeman Ph.D.
Psy.D. Program Faculty Member.
