Change, any change is stressful. Even good change that we chose for ourselves. As I anticipate a new marriage, a move across country, and new places to settle into, I can feel the anxiety build in my chest. My heart beats faster, my breathing is more shallow. As much as I’m looking forward to this, it’s still stressful.

So I am giving myself space. Time to breathe, to meditate. I chose to stay focused on what’s going right instead of thinking about the “what ifs…” of the future. What if the moving truck loses my boxes? What if it rains on my wedding day?Instead I’m focused on the cooler weather coming, grateful for all my things. 😁

I’m giving myself grace. I’m aware that I’m not as productive There will be time later to again work hard. Right now, I am managing the stress. And I’m choosing gratitude. I’m also making time for long walks. The exercise is easy yet releases the tension. I’m eating lots of fruits and veggies. Trying to nourish my body to help it manage the physical strain of the changes.

Stress must be managed. Acknowledging times of stress can help us put a plan together so we stay healthy and move through the stress to the other side. Otherwise, the stress becomes prolonged and we may need the help of a professional. Learning to be resilient and bounce back is a skill we can all develop.

For more help check out the book Bounce, Living the Resilient Life by Robert Wicks.