how do you de-stress?

[fliptheswitch]

The title says it all, really.
I have been massively stressed this past couple of months and, although it's not every single day, I do get moments when I feel like my heads about to explode with it all. Unfortunately, I can't seem to shake it, and it then turns into deep anxiety.

How do you de-stress?

[coccinelle]

Going out for a brisk walk in the countryside helps me. Also a nightime bath and a glass of wine (or two)

[B00]

I read.

[redcrx]

a long soak in the bath with a book.

[fliptheswitch]

Thanks coccinelle. I've been trying to make time to go out on my bike, but I just find that my mind is constantly racing with things I am worrying about, and I can't concentrate or relax at all.
Yeah, the glass of wine or two would probably help, but I think I'd end up with alcohol issues as I'd be drinking every blimmin night! :D

[Ankou]

go into my study and play my guitars and keyboards for hours and hours.
usually through my amps with headphones on.

[fliptheswitch]

See, that's the thing. I just can't concentrate on anything. Like I'm writing this now, but I'm still constantly thinking about other things. There's always stuff at the back of my mind.
It's nothing specific, just everything seems to be getting on top of me at the moment.
My doctor has prescribed me with some tablets. I haven't taken them yet as I don't want to be 'zombified', but I'm starting to wonder if they may be the only way.

[fliptheswitch]

Yeah, bath is nice... but my mind still carries on racing.

Lol ankou, that sounds brilliant! Actually, some loud music might just pick me up a bit....

[classylady60]

Have you tried listening to very soothing and relaxing music through headphones (not from speakers)? This might start to help you relax somewhat. You can then start to think about buying a relaxation CD...that may start the process, then go out for a walk or bike ride...once you start on a definite process it may become much easier to continue into fully de-stressing. Not easy when one is sound wound up but you have to start somewhere and it might be easier than you think if you try some small steps to get you started. Good luck, hope you find the key.

[coccinelle]

The walking doesn't need concentration. When things really build up just get up and go out of the house and walk. After about 15 minutes you'll start to see things in another way and you'll feel relaxed on getting back and in a different frame of mind. Just do it, don't give yourself options.

[ummmm]

Make a list....sort each problem that's stressing you one by one.

[ummmm]

Go swimming.....for some reason you can't think very well while you swim

[RATTER15]

A big hug from our wolf hounds does it for Carakeel and myself.

or a snooze in the garden with a living pillow helps :-) http://i106.photobuck...MeandMerlinasleep.jpg

[classylady60]

You're right ummmm writing things down does help to get the brain sorted, it's bringing the problems out for you to be able to see instead of bottling them up inside.

[Ankou]

"for some reason you can't think very well while you swim"

you're not wrong, sometimes i forget to breathe. aint no joke.

[fliptheswitch]

Thank you classylady, I did actually do that last night. I put on a chilled out CD, and just sat with my feet up, closed my eyes and tried to clear my mind. Unfortunately though, I have a bit of a weird thing going on when it comes to breathing and, after 20 minutes, I found myself concentrating on the way I was breathing, which then lead to me getting all panicky. Seriously, I think I'm a lost cause! lol

[fliptheswitch]

Actually, a list sounds like a good idea. That's the problem, I've got so much going on in my head, that I don't know where to start. I will do that - thanks.

And I can't swim very well at the moment (I've pulled a muscle in my shoulder), so I'd probably drown! :D

[ummmm]

Bet it's not Ankou....!!

It's true though....

[fliptheswitch]

Ratter, I'm only 5'4, so I reckon that hound would probably push me over! lol.
I've got work at one, so I may go out in the garden for a bit and write my list.
Thanks to all.

[classylady60]

No not a lost cause lol. Actually is does help to concentrate on breathing but you have to make sure you are taking long deep breaths through your nose and expel long and deeply through your mouth. Once you start slow breathing it helps to relax you...lots of slow deep breathing listening to relaxing music will start the process - honest.