5 Ways to De-Stress
Coping with stress is an important life skill that most of us don’t put enough emphasis on learning. The job description of a nanny is vast. We have several people looking to us for the answers to various problems and milestones a child goes through. Most nannies also have to balance the daily care of multiple children (which can include wrangling toddlers, dealing with tantrums, and crafting activities) with household chores, meal preparation, and the navigation of the employee/employer relationship. That doesn’t include all of the stress that comes from communicating with people of different ages and personalities every day. Transitioning conversation between the screaming toddler, the high strung MomBoss, and the sensitive five-year-old can be difficult! While it may feel as if you don’t have any “me time”, you need to take the time in order to live a more stress-free life. Following a few simple steps can lead you on the road to success.
Exercise
Most of us know the importance of exercise but rarely take the time to do it. Here are a few ideas.
No cash to burn:
Hit the hiking trails. You’ll be surprised at what is in your back yard! Find a hiking trail near you and take a friend, a lunch, and make a day of it. Don’t have time to hit the trails? Borrow a DVD from your local library, use YouTube, or search on FitnessBlender to find your next exercise fix!
Cash to spare:
Join a gym. Many times gyms will offer a special rate when you sign up. Some gyms even have unique nanny discounts – don’t forget to ask! Often gyms have free classes such as yoga or Zumba for those who are members. Take advantage of these classes and make the most of your gym membership. The gym isn’t your thing? Join a local intramural team of your favorite sport. A lot of towns offer these at a low rate. Practices are usually once a week with games on nights or weekends.
Laugh
They always say laughter is the best medicine. While laughter doesn’t solve everything, it does help lower cortisol, your brain’s stress hormone, and raise endorphins in the brain.
No cash to burn:
Check out one of the many sitcoms on TV. Nothing like a bit of goofy fun to get the laughter flowing. Not a TV person? Crack open a good comedy book. Goodreads is a great place to get a list of books that will get you into the giggling mood. Want some interaction? Invite some of your friends over and tell them you need a night of happy laughter!
Cash to spare:
Head to a comedy club. Nothing says laughter like a bit of comedy. To make the evening better invite some friends and make a night of it. Not the comedy club type? Head out to a night at the movies. There is always some comedy playing that will get the laughter juices going.
Relax
Most people see relax and automatically say, “I don’t have time.” You have to make time! You are important and you must take care of yourself so you can take care of others.
No cash to burn:
Make your own spa day! Use Pinterest and find recipes for a do-it-yourself face mask and paint fun nail art. Invite friends over and take turns doing each other’s nails. Spa days not your thing? Find a quiet place and soak in the sun while listening to some great tunes.
Cash to spare:
Take yourself for a spa treatment. Many places have deals for first time customers. Get a massage at a spa with a first time customer deal or head to the local massage school. Get your nails done and invite your friends. Another option is to head to the nearest beach for a weekend of sunshine and solace.
New Hobby
Starting a new hobby can be a great way to let off some steam and learn something new.
No Cash to Burn:
Join a book club. Take advantage of your local library to keep up with the reading list. If the library doesn’t have what you are looking for, go to websites such as PaperbackSwap and swap books with other people. It’s a great way to pick up a book you wouldn’t usually read. Reading not your thing? Volunteer! Nothing helps you feel as great as helping others.
Cash to spare:
Become the Pinterest guru you’ve always admired! Take the time to make some your favorite crafts that you’ve found. Learn how to knit that perfect scarf. Refurbish that old dresser sitting in storage. Experiment to get those perfect photos. Not only will you be able to say “I made that,” but you can also get a head start on Christmas gifts for a low price.
Socialization
Being around people is always a good mood lifter! Especially when they are your favorite people in the world.
No Cash to Burn:
Throw a BYOB/Potluck Game Night! The most expensive part of a party is the food and drinks so ask your guests to bring their own. Sweeten the pot by having a fun theme and playing games. Games not your thing? Invite your friends over for popcorn and a movie. Make it a classic so you can all think back!
Cash to spare:
Invite friends out to your local hangout and catch up on each other’s lives. Or take a weekend trip and invite your nearest and dearest along. Experiencing new things together is always a great way to bond.
Small lifestyle changes can make big impacts on your health. Take the time to enjoy the small things and explore new things along the way!