Speaking of stress, we have five teenagers starting four schools this week. One started Monday, two started Tuesday and two start Thursday. We don't usually have this many foster daughters in our home at one time ... but the first week of school?!
They've managed to get out the door on time today and yesterday. Monday was a different story, which necessitated a down-to-the minute bathroom schedule. But I digress ... we're talking about taking a mental break to relieve stress. (Maybe I should do a blog about blogging as a stress reliever! I sure feel better now. Thanks for listening. LOL)
When you're working on an intense project, have a packed schedule, or are otherwise stressed, take a mental break. Even if you can't change your physical location, taking a mental break will provide rest and refreshment. The key here is to do a mental activity that is totally different from your current task. Some ideas:
- Read a magazine article.
- Close your eyes and picture a calming scene.
- Examine the meaning and rhythm of a poem, noting the mental pictures you're making as you read it.
- Watch a short, funny video.
- Read a chapter in a good book.
- Tell jokes.
- Get a book of short stories or Reader’s Digest and read a story.
- Do a crossword puzzle, sudoku, computer game, etc.
- Get a book of five-minute mysteries and try to solve it with your family, friends, coworkers.
- Examine a piece of art.
- Read or listen to the news.
- Have a friendly debate.
- Dream.
What do you do to take a mental break? Subscribers, click here to comment at the end of the original blog.
More on stress relievers:
5-Minute Stress Relievers - Organizing and Cleaning
5-Minute Stress Relievers - Relaxation
Reduce Your Stress - Say No
Three Steps to Planning Dinner
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