7 Ways to Cultivate a Healthy Mindset When You Are Stressed
Written by: Lindsay Little, MS — Holistic Health Coach
Keeping things at a healthy balance takes eating right, exercising, getting good sleep, and focusing on dealing with stress in the right way. But sometimes, especially when we’re stressed, the thought of doing more or doing something different can make you more stressed!
These four cornerstones of good health will bring you balance in all areas of your life—however, many struggle with keeping a healthy mindset when the stress feels out of control.
Humans are creatures of habit. When we’re dealing with stress, illness, fatigue, or even overwhelm, we often revert back to what is comfortable. But with a little awareness and preparation, we can be ready to respond to those emotions in a more positive and productive way.
So, what can you do to cultivate that healthy mindset when stress has you coming undone?
#1 Plate up good nutrition
In times of stress, it's so easy to grab easy meals. Put a focus on finding quick meals that are still nutritionally sound so that you still feel good physically. Your immunity takes a hit during stressful times, so ramp things up with plenty of whole foods – fresh produce, lean protein, nourishing grains, and healthy fats – to see you through.
An easy way to do this is to prepare a big batch of something healthy or a few different dishes before heading into a stressful week. Chop up some vegetables or fruit to have on the fly for quick snacks. Or making a batch of soup or enchiladas that can be reheated as needed can be a game-changer!
#2 Surround yourself with positivity
From positive habits to positive people, bringing more positive forces into your life has a domino effect. Choose positivity, and you'll feel happier all around.
Other options include listening to your favorite music, watching a funny movie, or meditating.
#3 Practice gratitude
With stress, we often forget the many blessings we have. Keep a journal to jot down the things you're grateful for. When you feel stressed, thumb through it, and you'll have reminders of all the things that cause you to feel grateful.
Many non-profit organizations are strapped for volunteers. If you have some extra time in your schedule, consider reaching out to an organization you’re passionate about to see how you could help. Helping others is one of the best ways to practice gratitude!
#4 Get a hobby if you don't have one
There's a quote by Shelley Shepard Gray that says, "Idle hands make fretful minds." Do something that fills up your cup. If you've always found peace with art or painting, do more of that. It doesn't have to be perfect–it's the release you're looking for that will boost your mind and body.
#5 Talk it out
Ever notice how amazing you feel after you spend time with a dear friend you can genuinely talk to? Talking about your feelings with someone you trust will help your mind heal during stressful times. And if you've got no one to turn to, a journal is another way to let those feelings out and get that release.
#6 Learn to view obstacles as opportunities
Try to reframe any "I can't" thoughts into opportunities to grow. Difficult situations can feel overwhelming, but looking at them through the lens of growth can help to alleviate a lot of weight surrounding this stressful situation. Talking through these with a close friend or family member can be incredibly valuable.
Or, “brain dump” your thoughts into a journal or a black document on your computer. Don’t judge them, just get them out of your mind. After 5-10 minutes of writing whatever comes to mind, look at your words and then make a plan for reframing one thought. This is a great practice for when you’re overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next. It will help to clear up some mental bandwidth so you can spend your precious energy on things that matter most.
#7 Get more movement
Exercise isn't just wonderful for the body but also for the mind. It helps release anxiety and gives you more endurance. Exercise helps positively release stress, allowing you to feel better inside and out.
Check out the schedule of classes available at Vibe Fitness by clicking here! We’ll check many of these off this list with our amazing community!
And yes, sometimes, you just have to take a step back, breathe in and out, and charge head-on at that stress. Whatever it takes to win against this mental foe, you'll soon feel better when you start changing negative mindsets into positive ones.
Hey there! I’m Lindsay! I’m a Holistic Health Coach with a Master's Degree in Holistic Nutrition and a specialization in gut health. In my virtual health coaching practice, Full Bloom Acres Wellness, I help busy women over 40 eat the foods they love without embarrassing, painful, and annoying digestive issues. I would love to help you, too! Connect with me on social media at @fullbloomacres or on my website, www.fullbloomacres.com.
Get started resolving your digestive issues by downloading my FREE cheat sheet featuring my 10 favorite superfoods for good gut (and hormone!) health right here!
DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational and information use only and is not meant to diagnose or treat disease or illness. Please work with a qualified healthcare practitioner before making dietary or lifestyle changes.