Five ways to LET GO of stress

“LET GO” of Stress . . . Even if it’s Only for Five Minutes a Day
by Olivia Rossi
Your Personal Trainer

Stress. It can be positive and get you started or negative and hold you back. Like a tight fist, it takes up residence in that space between your ribs just above your waist. That’s where mine lives. It’s also the home of those “butterflies in your stomach” and your “gut instincts.” It can take the form of frustration, anger, fear or, on the positive side, happy anticipation. What can you do with that stress instead of letting it rule your day? How can you deal with it so it doesn’t take you for a ride on its “vicious cycle?” How to LET GO? There are five answers in that question. Even one can help.

• L—Laugh
• E—Exercise
• T—Talk

• G—Give
• O—Open

Let me expand on those.

Laughing increases relaxation. A good belly laugh just makes you feel better. It boosts your serotonin levels, an antidote for stress. Try doing a Mad Lib—they always kick me into high “giggle gear”—what works for you?

Exercise—go for a walk. As little as 10-minutes increases serotonin levels.

Talk to a friend, preferably in person. Take a time out. Touch someone, give a friend a hug.

Give something to someone, something as simple as a smile or a compliment. A smile can come back to light you. It makes the “smiler” feel better for giving it and the “smilee” feel better for receiving it.

Open your mind to one positive thought. I know it’s hard when you’re “uptight” but try it. Make a cup of coffee for a co-worker, then open your door, let in some light, and deliver it with a smile!

Yours in fitness,
Olivia C. Rossi, RN, MSN
Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist, ACSM
Certified Personal Trainer ACSM


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