Originally published: . Volume 14, No. 3. Source pages: 5.
by Susan Andrews, PhD
What is the fastest way to relieve stress? Countless methods of stress reduction exist, and different techniques work for every individual. Most of the well-known ways to reduce stress, however, are not “quick.” It is hard to imagine stopping in the middle of a high-pressured job interview or deposition and excusing yourself to meditate. Those great old methods of yoga, mindfulness, meditation, and exercise work but we all need something more immediate and accessible. There are so many things to consider, like what works best for you, what type of stress you are dealing with, and most of all, how good are you at recognizing when you are stressed and need some relief.
One of the fastest ways to control the rise of cortisol and the host of other stress- induced body systems is to engage one or more of your common senses – sight, sound, taste, smell, touch, or movement. Or, even better yet, you can engage the most important and powerful bridge to your body and your mind – your imagination.
Imagination is so powerful that it needs no definition. Discovering when sense and associated technique works best for you is today’s goal. Please do some experimenting to see which technique works best for you. Step One is to recognize the signs of stress. Tired is different from stress. Are your muscles tense or sore? Is your stomach cramped or aching? Are you holding your breath? Are your hands in fists? Or, are your jaws clenched? Do you get quickly keyed up when stressed or depressed and withdrawn? Some people actually freeze when stress reaches a really high point.
So, which senses do you turn to, sound or music, exercise or other types of movement, vision like a much-loved photo of a special place or like my cat, who relaxes to such a point that she almost slides off. Let’s look at some examples of simple stress relief exercises for each of the senses.
Sight: • • Look at a cherished photo in your mind – if in a meeting Enjoy the beauty of nature, a park or your own backyard in your imagination Smell • • Imagine a scent you enjoy if you cannot do it that moment Identify smells in the area while remaining in the situation Touch Pet a dog or a cat or something you have in your pocket that is soothing to touch • • Give yourself a subtle neck massage
Taste • • Indulge yourself in a small piece of dark chocolate or treat you brought with you Sip a hot cuppa or a refreshing cold drink like cold water Movement • • Breathe and focus on your breathing Tighten and release your muscles from head to foot or v.v. while you sit or stand in the meeting Sound • Hum in your head or imagine a favorite tune • Listen for sounds around you If all else fails, just take a break and a cat nap.
This article is part of a historical newspaper archive. Read the original issue for its original layout, photographs and graphics.