From the Triage Desk

This time of year can be wildly busy.  Whether you are a new parent adjusting to life with an infant or a seasoned parent racing from baseball fields to graduations, it can feel like you are running on a hamster wheel. While you may not have hours to relax and unwind, here are a few tips for quick ways to relieve stress and center yourself throughout the day:

1. BREATHE.  Ok, this may seem obvious, but have you actually stopped and done real breathing exercises before?  Some are as simple as breathing in for four counts, holding your breath for four counts, and releasing your breath for four counts.  Just the act of fully inhaling, exhaling, and slowing yourself down can calm a heightened nervous system.  Check out some of these suggestions from Headspace.
2. DETACH FROM ELECTRONICS.  Maybe you’re on call or need to be able to respond to a family member in need, so this one might be tough.  But if there are times in your day when you know you can set your phone aside, even for an hour, it can be refreshing.  Perhaps everyone leaves their phone on the counter for dinner.  Maybe you commit to an hour of reading or a crossword puzzle that is uninterrupted.  Whatever keeps you from the nonstop scrolling or responding is a win!
3. GET SOME FRESH AIR.  Can you find 15 minutes to take a walk outside during your work day?  How about sitting in the backyard while your kids play?  Sunshine and Vitamin D are natural mood boosters.
4. PRACTICE GRATITUDE.  Right before you fall asleep, try writing out five things you are thankful for or even one great thing that happened to you today.  Practicing gratitude helps shift our minds into a positive space and allows us to appreciate the things that went right instead of focusing on what went wrong in our day.
5. FIND YOUR BLISS AT HOME.  We can’t always go on vacation or escape when we need a reset, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find some joy right at home.  Desperate for a spa day but it’s not in the budget?  Hang some fresh eucalyptus in your shower, dim the lights, and play some soothing music.  Instant spa experience.  Craving a cozy, nostalgic night from your childhood?  Gather the family, pop some popcorn, and dive under your favorite blanket for a showing of a favorite movie from your past. 
6. LAUGH.  Surround yourself with friends. Read a funny book. Watch a comedy.  See a stand-up comedian.  Let yourself laugh – it truly is the best medicine!

And remember – not all stress or mental health issues can be cured with a good book or a dinner with friends.  If you are struggling and feel like you have lost interest in the things you once enjoyed, reach out to your doctor (or to us).  It’s OK to ask for help!