Stress Management...
What are some constructive ways to better manage stress? Alcohol has always been my go-to and I'm done relying on substances to help me get through high stress/pressure situations. My career can be tough more times than I'd like to admit and I'm juggling a class that I'm struggling in bc I just don't have the mental capacity by the end of the workday. I feel braindead most days and would always reach for a cold one to help me relax. Right now, I'm replacing that with a lot of food and sleep which I don't want to get used to bc I'm usually very active. I'm terrified of gaining weight.
Advice??
6 Likes
Exercise
1 Like
I need to gain more energy back for that. I have been feeling really drained lately.
Stretch out. It’s a good starting point. What do you have to lose ?
2 Likes
That's not a bad idea 
Light yoga could definitely be an option.
2 Likes
Walking and hiking helped me.some times I would have to force myself to get up and do it.it paid off though.now I have lots more energy and a lot more peace in my life.i usually go places I have no cell phone service or I don't take my phone.
If I don't do things like that,all the hard work i put in everyday drains me and I end up grumpy and not happy with my job or my quality of life.
1 Like
Just getting on that yoga mat is a victory
1 Like
Prayer and meditation
Exercise
Listening to podcasts
Pause, pray and proceed
Talk to a member of your sober support or your sponsor if you have one 
2 Likes
I started up new hobby’s to keep my mind occupied - climbing , trail running , journaling, art classes ext
1 Like
I forgot. Hydrate !
1 Like
For easy stress relief, I put on my Bluetooth headphones, blast music, and dance.
Other stress relief: meditation, reading, and Pilates.
Sometimes I do some progressive muscle relaxation: How to Practice Progressive Muscle Relaxation
1 Like
Walk, jog, run.
1 Like
Also, don’t forget to help others.
1 Like
Mindfulness
1 Like
And channel the energy into something positive or productive
1 Like
I also try to force myself to do the opposite of what I want to do to interrupt the habit/cycle. To reprogram
2 Likes
A good thing to remember, Maybe just checking in on this app would help break up the cycle
1 Like
Guided meditation is the best solution for me.
1 Like
Thank you all for your feedback!
I hear ya! I can relate.
Just two ideas but you can pm me for more.
Love yourself and find gratitude for where you’re at-sober! It will raise your vibration and make you feel happier with what you’ve accomplished with the help of HP and others (more gratitude).
I’m a very spiritual person and know the power of vision boards-give yourself a date night to make one (Google how to create but they have intentions and affirmations and visuals of where you’re going this year). Look at it often!
It’s been so beneficial for me! My friends said looking back on theirs, everything they put on theirs have come true.
1 Like