Stress Management: Take a walk she said...
- Stephanie
- Apr 1
- 6 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When clients come to us, they often recognize their stress—or sometimes, they only notice the symptoms without linking them to stress. Insomnia, IBS, nail-biting, headaches, procrastination—the signs are there, even when unnoticed. Stress takes a toll, impacting cardiovascular health, digestion, and immunity. According to the Centre for Mental Health, the collective economic, human, and healthcare costs total £300 billion. So, how do we regain control?
In our fast-paced world, stress has become a common part of life. Whether it's due to work pressures, personal relationships, or unexpected challenges, everyone experiences stress at some point. However, how we manage that stress can make a huge difference in our overall well-being and happiness. In this blog post, we will explore practical ways to handle stress in everyday life and foster a healthier mindset.
Understanding Stress Management
Before diving into the techniques, it's essential to understand what stress management involves. Stress management is the process of recognizing and addressing the sources of stress in your life. By doing so, you can reduce its impact and develop a more balanced approach to life's challenges. Various strategies can help, and it's crucial to find what works best for you.
Identifying Sources of Stress... and working on them
To effectively manage stress, start by identifying its sources. Take a moment to reflect on the areas of your life that cause the most anxiety. These could include:
Work-related pressures
Family responsibilities
Financial concerns
Health issues
Documenting these stressors can provide clarity. Once you know what you are up against, you can develop strategies to address them. Consider keeping a stress journal to track your feelings and the situations that trigger them. This step is critical in forming a plan.
Case study: When C came to us, she was exhausted. As a full-time working mother of two with endless responsibilities, she hadn’t realized how stress was affecting her—snapping at home, withdrawing at work. Through a structured Wheel of Life review, we uncovered frustrations at her workplace and deep-rooted duty to her parents that restricted her independence.
Through Hypnotherapy, C began seeing her work struggles with fresh clarity. Recognizing a past job had brought her fulfillment, she decided it was time for a career shift. Hypnotherapy helped her rehearse performance reviews, practice interviews, and build confidence for the change. Within two months, she landed a new role and felt empowered in her choice—because hypnotherapy doesn’t control you, it opens doors you hadn’t considered.
What are 5 Stress Management Techniques?
Here are five effective stress management techniques that can help you navigate your daily challenges:
1. Mindful Breathing
Mindful breathing is a straightforward technique that involves focusing on your breath to shift your attention away from stressors. To practice this, find a comfortable position, close your eyes, and take a deep breath in through your nose, letting your abdomen expand. Hold your breath for a moment, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat this process for several minutes.
This technique calms your mind and reduces physiological symptoms of stress, such as increased heart rate. If you haven't tried Sophrology, now is the time!
2. Sleep, Eat, Exercise - Repeat!
Stress influences lifestyle choices, creating a cycle that affects mental, emotional, and physical health. While unhealthy habits offer temporary relief, they don’t serve long-term well-being. Hypnotherapy helps establish positive routines, improving sleep quality, reshaping eating habits, and boosting motivation for movement.
Regular exercise helps reset stress levels, rebalance hormones that improve your mood, and clear the mind. And sometimes, clients just need a little motivation to take that first step—whether it’s hitting the gym or simply going for a walk. Regular physical activity is not only good for your body; it's also an excellent stress reliever. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could be a brisk walk, cycling, swimming, or any activity you enjoy.
Additionally, incorporating activities like yoga or dance can be a fun way to lift your spirits while staying active.
Using hypnotherapy, our clients get motivation to take that first step—whether it’s hitting the gym or simply going for a walk.
Our diet plays a significant role in your stress levels. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help your body cope with stress better. Avoid relying on caffeine or sugary snacks as they can cause energy crashes and exacerbate stress. Instead, try incorporating foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Have you considered Hypnotherapy to help reshaping your eating habits?
Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep. Sleep deprivation can increase stress and anxiety levels. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a bedtime routine to signal your body that it's time to wind down. Turn off electronic devices, read a book, or take a warm bath to help relax your body and mind.
3. Prioritise 'me time'
Balancing life’s responsibilities often means neglecting downtime and personal reconnection. Sophrology bridges the gap between mind and body, fostering self-care. Reiki offers another profound way to let go, recharge, and gain clarity.
Self-care is vital in managing stress effectively. Making time for yourself allows you to recharge and rejuvenate. Dedicate time for hobbies, relaxation, and activities that bring you joy. Whether it’s painting, reading, gardening, or simply taking time to soak in a bubble bath, self-care should be a priority.
Moreover, consider practicing gratitude. Each day, write down three things you are thankful for. Focusing on the positive can shift your outlook and reduce stress levels.
Case study: F came for a Reiki session after taking a break from a demanding job. He left the session with unexpected realizations—not just relaxation but insights into a past relationship that needed healing. This discovery led him to Inner Child hypnotherapy, helping him achieve closure and emotional peace.
4. Social Connections
Building and maintaining strong relationships is essential for stress management. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who can listen and offer advice. Sometimes, just talking about your problems can relieve stress. Human connection is powerful. We are energy centers—absorbing, radiating, and reacting to one another. Whether you’re an introvert who recharges in solitude or an extrovert who thrives in social settings, connection is essential. Consider joining social groups, clubs, or even online communities, which can foster a sense of belonging and help you connect with others facing similar challenges.
Supporting others fosters resilience, refines priorities, and shifts stress into perspective. My own life is shaped by people—those who influenced my career decisions (whether I stayed or left), the community I support through charity work, and those who uplift me in difficult moments.
5. Rewire your brain with positivity
Maintaining a positive outlook can make a world of difference when managing stress. Cultivate resilience by embracing challenges rather than avoiding them. Engage in positive self-talk, affirmations, and visualize success in situations that cause stress.
It's also crucial to practice acceptance. Recognize that not everything is within your control. Embrace change as an opportunity for growth rather than a setback.
At Eyeris Health, we practice positive psychology, a simple yet profound method to shift perspective. Journaling, setting positive thoughts before sleep, and waking up with gratitude help reframe the mind. In hypnotherapy, we reshape internal narratives to bring clarity and confidence—strengthening relationships and boosting self-esteem with an infusion of positive energy.
Professional Help: When to Seek Support
While self-help techniques can be beneficial, sometimes stress can become overwhelming. If you find that stress is significantly affecting your daily life, it may be time to reach out for professional help. Therapists and counselors can offer valuable strategies tailored to your specific needs.
Stress is an inevitable part of life; however, it does not have to dictate your well-being. By understanding your stressors and applying practical management techniques, you can create a more balanced lifestyle. Remember that making small, consistent changes can lead to significant improvements over time.
Finding what works best for you is essential. Experiment with different strategies, and don't hesitate to seek support when needed. By prioritizing your mental health and well-being, you can navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.
But… What Does Hypnotherapy Have to Do with Walking?
Ah, yes—the walk. I once told a client under hypnosis to go and take a walk. Why? Because when your mind opens, possibilities emerge. You notice opportunities, interests, and focus in ways you didn’t expect.
Walking is…
Meditation, easing the mind.
A mood booster, lifting spirits.
A lifeline in your darkest moments.
A breath of fresh thoughts.
Laughing when your dog drags you through a puddle.
The first step toward transformation
Walking Together in June
At Eyeris Health, we practice what we preach. On 7th June, we’ll be taking part in the Midnight Walk, joined by friends, family, colleagues, and clients—all walking at their own pace, in conversation or quiet reflection. Whether we walk in remembrance or celebration, we walk because we choose life.
Whether you want to join us or participate in our fund raising, we will welcome you!
