Stress and Release

I'm convinced that we are a nation of stressed out people (heh, a not-so-novel idea, I'm aware). And not being stressed out is a sought-after concept, although it feels somewhat foreign and uncomfortable when we find moments in our lives where we can actually experience it. And when you think you aren't stressed, do a double-take of your habits just to be sure. They'll reveal to you what's really going on inside.

I'm speaking from recent personal experience, of course.

Months after I've decided to release myself from the responsibilities of management in a fast-paced, all holidays, all summer, no-day-off-without-checking-in lifestyle, I have subconsciously taken on the stress of others (i.e. my husband). Justin has recently taken a position in sales for a well-known insurance company. His main target for sales is with small business. It's a great product, and he looks and performs wonderfully in his new role. I know there are hard working men out there, but my husband could probably outlast most of them. He simply doesn't give up, even when it's truly draining.  At first, the stress went semi-unrecognized. Yeah, I'm making less than my income with my previous job, but I get my time with my family back (there's never enough time with baby girl). Yes, I just totaled our car and we've yet to hear from the adjuster what the cash value is, and nope- no gap insurance this time around, BUT we get to simplify our lives and purchase something without the demands of a car payment anymore! Yes, those businesses like to give my hubby the runaround, rescheduling the day of, or simply not getting back to him with decisions- YET, he's making so much progress and this is only the beginning to a successful year, I just know it. I've found the silver lining in almost every challenge.

So how did I notice I was stressing when I seemed to be taking so much in stride? It could be that I was tossing and turning each night, to no avail. That I haven't exercised except for a few walks around the neighborhood in the past two weeks. Or that yesterday, I had this crazy drink called an Ameri-Cola from a great little coffee shop close to work (espresso poured over a Mexican Coca-Cola)... and a doughnut... at 3:30pm, to try and avoid my daily crash before heading home. Or that this morning I ordered coffee and doughnuts before work- I guess 16 hours was simply too long before ordering more. I've been bloated, having hot flashes, and craving only comfort foods. Something's gotta give, even though on the surface, I'm truly feeling okay!

Anyway, as I sit at home, feeling good and drinking really, really cheap wine, I had this aha! moment and had to share. My entire week has consisted of paring down our belongings, working, long talks with Justin, missing my baby while I'm in the city, and searching for an affordable and practical car. I've been trying to release writing ideas in my daily journal, but this one felt good to write without waiting.

What are some things you do out of habit from stress? How do you choose to combat them? I guess my answer would be I get lost in television shows, remain sedentary, and eat very poorly. Of course, I will have to combat them by simply doing the exact opposite! Bleh.