Living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) can present unique challenges, especially during a busy season in life. The demands of work, family, and personal responsibilities can easily lead to increased stress levels. However, managing stress is crucial for your overall well-being and quality of life. In this blog post, we will explore five effective strategies to help individuals living with SCI reduce stress and maintain balance during busy periods.
Summer is usually always a busy season for anyone. The warmer weather in Northeast Ohio means picnics/BBQs, trips to Lake Erie, and summer concerts. We have been busy with wedding activities: bottling wine to serve at the reception (photo to the right), our engagement photo session, and gearing up for our couple's wedding shower! As the calendar fills up, you may also feel your stress levels rise. So, let’s get into the five effective strategies for reducing stress. Use one, some, or all – it’s what feels beneficial for you.
1. Prioritize Self-Care:
Self-care is not a luxury; it is essential to managing stress and maintaining physical and emotional well-being. Take time for yourself each day, even if it's just a few minutes. Engage in activities that bring you joy, such as reading, listening to music, meditating, or practicing deep breathing exercises. Prioritize activities that help you relax, unwind, and recharge. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's a necessary step toward managing stress effectively. Journaling to get your thoughts out is also a form of self-care.
2. Plan and Organize:
Busy seasons can often feel overwhelming, but having a well-thought-out plan can help alleviate stress. Create a schedule or use organizational tools, such as digital calendars or apps, to keep track of important tasks, appointments, and deadlines. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and prioritize them based on their urgency and importance. By organizing your time and tasks, you can gain a sense of control and reduce the stress associated with feeling overwhelmed. Make a checklist for supplies you need when heading out and about. That way, you don’t have to think about it. You know what you need to pack.
3. Seek Support:
No one should face the challenges of a busy season alone, especially if you live with an SCI. Reach out to your support network, whether it's family, friends, or support groups, and let them know about the demands you are facing. Communicate your needs and ask for help when necessary. Sometimes, simply talking to someone who understands your situation can provide immense relief. Additionally, professional support, such as counseling or therapy, can be beneficial in helping you cope with stress and develop effective coping mechanisms. To find the schedule for The United Spinal Association Northeast Ohio Chapter’s Events (in-person and virtual) head to www.usaneo.org/calendar.
4. Practice Mindfulness:
Mindfulness is a powerful technique for reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm and focus. Engage in mindfulness exercises regularly to cultivate a present-moment awareness. This could include practices like meditation, deep breathing, or body scans. Paying attention to the sensations in your body, your thoughts, and the environment around you can help you break free from stress-inducing thoughts and bring you back to the present moment. Regular mindfulness practice can enhance your ability to manage stress and maintain a positive outlook.
5. Adapt and Delegate:
Sometimes, during busy seasons, it's essential to reassess your responsibilities and find ways to adapt and delegate tasks. Identify tasks that can be delegated to others, whether it's at work or within your personal life. Utilize assistive technology, devices, or adaptive aids that can make tasks more manageable. By letting go of tasks that can be shared or adapted, you can reduce stress and focus your energy on the things that truly require your attention. And remember, you can always cancel something or say no if you need to. Taking care of yourself is not selfish.
Living with a spinal cord injury can be challenging, especially during busy seasons in life; there is no doubt about that. However, implementing effective stress management strategies can significantly enhance your well-being and ability to navigate these demanding periods. Prioritizing self-care, planning and organizing, seeking support, practicing mindfulness, and adapting and delegating tasks are all powerful ways to reduce stress and maintain balance. Remember, it's important to be patient with yourself and allow for flexibility as you implement these strategies. By managing stress, you can enhance your overall quality of life and thrive even during the busiest times.
If you would like more information on anything I spoke about here, leave me some feedback either here – below this post, e-mail me (thewheellifeblog@gmail.com), or on any of my social media platforms! (IG/TW/TT @megs_hammond). I also have a free 2-week journaling guide you can download from my website if you are interested in starting your journaling practice. I would love to hear from you and what I can do to help. If there is ANYTHING that you want to hear about – please let me know! I can’t do any of this without YOU, so I would love to connect with you!
Looking for journaling inspiration? I have added a ‘Spring-Cleaning’ downloadable Journal to the shop on my website to help you declutter your life and start moving toward the life of your dreams. Each prompt will ask you to reflect on an area of your life and come up with actionable steps to work toward your dream life. Use the space I provide in my journal or whatever you have/like. You can find it in my shop or send me a DM on Instagram (@megs_hammond), and I can send you the link.
Let’s keep those happy thoughts, productivity, and self-care going! Until next time, live honestly, passionately, and with kindness! Take care!
Megs