Stress is a word we throw around a lot, but do we truly understand how it shapes our lives? Especially for us moms, stress can take on forms that subtly impact our well-being without us even realizing it. Let's pull back the curtain on these three types of stress and uncover the hidden ways they affect us.
The Usual Suspects: Acute and Chronic Stress
We’re all familiar with acute stress—it’s the fleeting, intense reaction to an immediate challenge. It's like the quick zap you feel when you realize you're late for school drop-off or when you have to dodge an unexpected work deadline. Chronic stress, on the other hand, is the kind that sticks around for the long haul. It lurks in the background, fueled by ongoing challenges like financial worries or health issues. We know these types well because they’re the loudest.
The Silent Drainer: Episodic Stress
But what about episodic stress? This is the one that doesn't get enough attention, yet it's the most common among us moms. It’s the pattern of constant worry, where your days feel like a string of minor emergencies. Picture this: Every day is a repeat of racing against the clock, juggling tasks, and feeling like you're perpetually behind. The impact? Persistent anxiety, headaches, muscle tension, and that nagging feeling of being on edge—all the time.
Is Stress Stealing Your Spark?
When episodic stress becomes a part of our daily routine, it drains our energy and dims our inner spark. It’s like having an invisible weight that you carry around, making it hard to find joy in the little things. It can even lead to more severe health issues if left unchecked. But recognizing it is the first step toward change.
One Simple Shift: Your Stress Pause
Here's a small but powerful practice to reclaim a moment of calm: Create a "stress pause" ritual. When you feel tension rising, take 5 minutes to pause. Yes, you are going to give yourself 5 mins! Lock yourself in the closet if you have to. Close your eyes, take some deep breaths, and ground yourself in the present. This brief reset can help interrupt the stress cycle and bring you back to the here and now.
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