<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>connection - Learning to Bloom</title> <atom:link href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/tag/connection/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://learningtobloom.com</link> <description>Inspiration for a happy and fulfilled life!</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 06 Feb 2025 03:44:03 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <image> <url>https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1</url> <title>connection - Learning to Bloom</title> <link>https://learningtobloom.com</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <site xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">123350007</site> <item> <title>10 Ways to Reduce Stress in Your Life</title> <link>https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2025/02/16/10-ways-to-reduce-stress-in-your-life/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=10-ways-to-reduce-stress-in-your-life</link> <comments>https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2025/02/16/10-ways-to-reduce-stress-in-your-life/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Samantha]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sun, 16 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Personal Development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[connection]]></category> <category><![CDATA[learning to bloom]]></category> <category><![CDATA[movement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[nourishing food]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Reducing Stress]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sleep]]></category> <category><![CDATA[spend time outside]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wellness]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://learningtobloom.com/?p=6387</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Stress management is so important for our brain health and overall wellbeing. Today I am sharing 10 ways that you can reduce stress in your life!</p> <p>The post <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2025/02/16/10-ways-to-reduce-stress-in-your-life/">10 Ways to Reduce Stress in Your Life</a> first appeared on <a href="https://learningtobloom.com">Learning to Bloom</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I was listening to the <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/7FA8jr89jFmccin3PzOgDM?si=bef150a77870482c" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">Zoe Nutrition podcast</a> the other day about strategies to strengthen your brain and reduce your risk of dementia. One of these strategies is stress management. They mention that stress has been proven to shrink your brain. I am no stranger to stress and anxiety. Over the years, I have worked hard in therapy to help develop strategies to cope and deal in more constructive ways. I still have those days, but they are fewer than they used to be. I have a handful of go-to stress-relieving activities that I turn to to help. Today I wanted to share 10 ways to help you reduce stress in your life! Let’s focus on strengthening our brains!</p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-4 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="6269" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241201_132852.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6269" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241201_132852.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241201_132852.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241201_132852.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241201_132852.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241201_132852.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="6187" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241105_153731.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6187" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241105_153731.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241105_153731.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241105_153731.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241105_153731.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/20241105_153731.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="5331" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240720_174859.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-5331" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240720_174859.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240720_174859.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240720_174859.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240720_174859.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/20240720_174859.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="512" height="512" data-id="5690" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=512%2C512&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-5690" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?w=512&ssl=1 512w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1 150w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=75%2C75&ssl=1 75w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=270%2C270&ssl=1 270w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=192%2C192&ssl=1 192w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=180%2C180&ssl=1 180w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/cropped-20240906_175033.jpg?resize=32%2C32&ssl=1 32w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px" /></figure> </figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">10 Ways to Reduce Stress in Your Life</h2> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Get enough sleep</h3> <p>Prioritizing sleep is so good for a variety of things and stress management is one of them. Getting enough sleep allows your brain and body to recharge. Most adults need between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night. If you’re not getting proper sleep, your energy level, mood, focus, and overall functioning can be affected. Some tips for getting better sleep are:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet</li> <li>Don’t eat right before bed</li> <li>Listen to soothing music or sounds, my favorite thing to listen to is rain sounds</li> <li>Try and keep a consistent sleep schedule, meaning go to bed and wake up at the same time every day</li> <li>Put your phone and tablet away; I always find that it is harder to turn my brain off if I scroll before I try and sleep </li> </ul> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-full"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="1439" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?resize=960%2C1439&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6498" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?resize=200%2C300&ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1 683w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C1151&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?resize=1366%2C2048&ssl=1 1366w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/priscilla-du-preez-R2uNyGmeM4-unsplash.jpg?resize=1140%2C1709&ssl=1 1140w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Learn to manage your time & set boundaries</h3> <p>If you find that a lot of your stress is coming from taking on or committing to too many things, time management and boundary setting could be just what you need. When you’re stretched too thin, it makes it harder for you to focus and keep calm. You also are more tempted to cut out the healthy habits you have in place to manage your stress like getting enough sleep, exercise, or nourishing food. Learning to say no or delegating tasks is okay. Prioritizing your health and mindset is what’s important.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Make time to rest and relax</h3> <p>In a world that is constantly go, go, go, making time to rest and relax can sometimes feel “unproductive.” But, resting and relaxing are essential to a more balanced and stress-free life. Tension can build up in our muscles when we are constantly stressed, so it’s important to take the time to relax those muscles and rest to recharge your batteries! We don’t always have to be doing something productive!</p> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="640" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/maddi-bazzocco-TOZqUHD8L38-unsplash.jpg?resize=960%2C640&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-2005" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/maddi-bazzocco-TOZqUHD8L38-unsplash.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/maddi-bazzocco-TOZqUHD8L38-unsplash.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/maddi-bazzocco-TOZqUHD8L38-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/maddi-bazzocco-TOZqUHD8L38-unsplash.jpg?resize=1536%2C1024&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/maddi-bazzocco-TOZqUHD8L38-unsplash.jpg?resize=2048%2C1365&ssl=1 2048w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/maddi-bazzocco-TOZqUHD8L38-unsplash.jpg?w=1920&ssl=1 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Spend time outside</h3> <p>There have been numerous studies on the effects of spending time outside in regard to your mental health. I’ve said it time and again how much <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2025/01/08/how-to-beat-the-winter-blues/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">I love to be outside</a>. I feel so much clarity when I’m out in my garden, taking my morning walk, or hiking with my husband! We love to take nature walks and camp but if those aren’t your cup of tea, spending time in a park or hitting up a local walking trail work just as well! If you can, I also recommend any local botanical gardens or arboretums that are open! It’s so fun to look at all the trees and plants!</p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-2 is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="6155" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_123806.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6155" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_123806.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_123806.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_123806.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_123806.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_123806.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="6419" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250125_135129.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6419" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250125_135129.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250125_135129.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250125_135129.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250125_135129.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250125_135129.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="6430" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_151914.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6430" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_151914.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_151914.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_151914.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_151914.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_151914.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="6154" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_122735.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6154" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_122735.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_122735.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_122735.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_122735.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/20241020_122735.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> </figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Movement</h3> <p>Another one of the science-based strategies to strengthen your brain on the <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/1xDawqT8Cgm6HAnbpFX5T5?si=997dd9edadd14642" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">Zoe Nutrition Podcast</a> was making sure to incorporate regular exercise and movement into your life. Exercise is a game-changer for stress management. Aim for at least <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495#" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">30 minutes of movement</a> 3-5 days a week for optimal benefits. Exercise releases endorphins, a hormone that reduces stress, lifts your mood, and can even relieve pain. Specifically in the podcast episode, the doctors talked about muscle-building exercises to strengthen your brain but these other forms are also great for stress management:</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Swimming</li> <li>Walking</li> <li>Running</li> <li>Hiking</li> <li>Biking/Cycling</li> <li>Dancing</li> <li>Yoga</li> <li>Pilates</li> <li>Aerobics</li> <li>Any type of movement is beneficial!</li> </ul> <figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="640" data-id="467" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bruno-nascimento-149663.jpg?resize=960%2C640&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-467" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bruno-nascimento-149663.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bruno-nascimento-149663.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bruno-nascimento-149663.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bruno-nascimento-149663.jpg?resize=330%2C220&ssl=1 330w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bruno-nascimento-149663.jpg?w=1920&ssl=1 1920w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/06/bruno-nascimento-149663.jpg?w=2880&ssl=1 2880w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="720" data-id="833" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1523966338619.jpg?resize=960%2C720&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-833" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1523966338619.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1523966338619.jpg?resize=300%2C225&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1523966338619.jpg?resize=768%2C576&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1523966338619.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1 640w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/1523966338619.jpg?w=1600&ssl=1 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="640" data-id="836" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/emma-simpson-153970-unsplash.jpg?resize=960%2C640&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-836" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/emma-simpson-153970-unsplash.jpg?resize=1024%2C683&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/emma-simpson-153970-unsplash.jpg?resize=300%2C200&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/emma-simpson-153970-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C512&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/emma-simpson-153970-unsplash.jpg?resize=330%2C220&ssl=1 330w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/emma-simpson-153970-unsplash.jpg?w=1920&ssl=1 1920w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/emma-simpson-153970-unsplash.jpg?w=2880&ssl=1 2880w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure> </figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Focus on nourishing food</h3> <p>Your diet not only affects your physical health but your mental health as well. Focusing on eating fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats will provide your body the nourishment it needs to cope with stress. You’ll be fueling your body to give yourself more mental clarity, which will help to make you more resilient when dealing with stress!</p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="3931" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230815_191443.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3931" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230815_191443.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230815_191443.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230815_191443.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230815_191443.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/20230815_191443.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="677" height="1024" data-id="5076" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?resize=677%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-5076" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?resize=677%2C1024&ssl=1 677w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?resize=198%2C300&ssl=1 198w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C1161&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?resize=1016%2C1536&ssl=1 1016w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?resize=1354%2C2048&ssl=1 1354w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?resize=1140%2C1724&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/nadine-primeau-ftWfohtjNw-unsplash.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 677px) 100vw, 677px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="4067" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/20230907_112941.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-4067" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/20230907_112941.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/20230907_112941.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/20230907_112941.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/20230907_112941.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/20230907_112941.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="6420" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_085620.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-6420" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_085620.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_085620.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_085620.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_085620.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/20250126_085620.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" data-id="5077" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-5077" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?resize=683%2C1024&ssl=1 683w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?resize=200%2C300&ssl=1 200w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C1152&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?resize=1024%2C1536&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?resize=1365%2C2048&ssl=1 1365w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?resize=1140%2C1710&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/thomas-le-pRJhn4MbsMM-unsplash.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /></figure> </figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Meditation & Mindfulness & Breathwork</h3> <p>Mindfulness and meditation are all about being present with your thoughts and feelings without judgment. A way of calming your mind by keeping your attention on what is happening right now, your breath, any emotions that come up, or any bodily sensations. Aiming for just 10 minutes a day is found to reduce your stress response and cortisol levels. As with any practice, consistency is key. If you need assistance, there are a ton of apps like Headspace and Calm that have guided meditations to get you started!</p> <p>Breathwork is a great option for reducing stress quickly. Exercises like the 4-7-8 technique that include slow deep breaths paired with a long exhale can help slow your heart rate and prompt your brain that it’s time for calm.</p> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Inhale through your nose for <strong>4</strong> seconds</li> <li>Hold for <strong>7</strong> seconds</li> <li>Slowly exhale through your mouth for <strong>8</strong> seconds</li> </ul> <div class="wp-block-image"> <figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="879" height="1024" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=879%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1953" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=879%2C1024&ssl=1 879w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=258%2C300&ssl=1 258w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=768%2C894&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=1319%2C1536&ssl=1 1319w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?w=1485&ssl=1 1485w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 879px) 100vw, 879px" /></figure></div> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Connect with others</h3> <p>I listened to an interview recently on the<a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1lpy8r0fwI5jPXKKyd45dO?si=5f9e181751214382" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title=""> Offline Podcast</a> about how people are choosing social isolation now more than ever before and what it means for our society. It’s easy to want to isolate yourself when you’re stressed and irritable but making social connections can make all the difference. Connecting with a friend or family member provides support and allows you to get distracted for a while. </p> <p>Make sure to connect, in person, with someone who is a good listener and makes you feel seen and safe. Don’t let the fear of being a burden keep you from reaching out. Quality time with a trusted friend or family member will help reduce your stress levels, reduce feelings of loneliness, and improve your mood!</p> <p>If you find that your stress and anxiety are too much, I also recommend seeking the help of a professional. A therapist is an objective outside observer who can help give you more tools to combat your overwhelming stress and anxiety. Therapy is the best thing I have ever done for myself and my mental health. In my opinion everyone should go to therapy at least once in their life.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Make time for hobbies</h3> <p>I love a good <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2024/09/11/5-creative-hobbies-to-start-this-fall/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">hobby</a>! Hobbies provide the perfect distraction when you are stressed. You’re focused more on what you’re doing instead of what you should be doing giving you a break from the demands of everyday life. </p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="720" data-id="5483" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?resize=960%2C720&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-5483" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?resize=300%2C225&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C576&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?resize=1536%2C1152&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?resize=1140%2C855&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?w=2000&ssl=1 2000w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/jennie-razumnaya-XbcfTH69aAc-unsplash.jpg?w=1920&ssl=1 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="5484" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/gio-gix-1lk7gF-pMx0-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-5484" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/gio-gix-1lk7gF-pMx0-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/gio-gix-1lk7gF-pMx0-unsplash.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/gio-gix-1lk7gF-pMx0-unsplash.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/gio-gix-1lk7gF-pMx0-unsplash.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/gio-gix-1lk7gF-pMx0-unsplash.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="5426" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/P1002861.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-5426" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/P1002861.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/P1002861.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/P1002861.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/P1002861.jpg?resize=1140%2C1520&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/P1002861.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> </figure> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Keep a journal</h3> <p>I have always loved the practice of <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2022/09/07/how-to-start-your-journal-practice-this-fall/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">journaling</a>. I haven’t always been consistent with keeping up a daily practice but journaling has been a constant in my life since I was very young. One of my favorite types of journaling is a stream-of-consciousness practice where you just continuously write out whatever you’re thinking or feeling for a certain amount of time or a certain number of pages. I also love gratitude journaling because it helps me focus on the things in my life I have control over and also helps to change perspective.</p> <p>If you’re new to journaling and don’t know where to start, I have several helpful posts below to help you get started! They are labeled for certain times of the year but are applicable for whenever!</p> <p><a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2022/09/07/how-to-start-your-journal-practice-this-fall/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">How to Start Your Journal Practice</a></p> <p><a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2022/10/30/15-journal-prompts-for-fall/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">15 Journal Prompts for Fall</a></p> <p><a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2024/01/21/20-journal-prompts-for-winter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">20 Journal Prompts for Winter</a></p> <figure class="wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex"> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="665" height="1024" data-id="4889" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?resize=665%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-4889" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?resize=665%2C1024&ssl=1 665w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?resize=195%2C300&ssl=1 195w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C1183&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?resize=997%2C1536&ssl=1 997w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?resize=1329%2C2048&ssl=1 1329w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?resize=1140%2C1756&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/annie-spratt-OQj0chxpZOI-unsplash.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 665px) 100vw, 665px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" data-id="3259" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20221026_111140.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-3259" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20221026_111140.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20221026_111140.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20221026_111140.jpg?resize=1152%2C1536&ssl=1 1152w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20221026_111140.jpg?resize=600%2C800&ssl=1 600w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/20221026_111140.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="820" height="1024" data-id="4890" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sixteen-miles-out-0I75875sRVU-unsplash.jpg?resize=820%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-4890" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sixteen-miles-out-0I75875sRVU-unsplash.jpg?resize=820%2C1024&ssl=1 820w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sixteen-miles-out-0I75875sRVU-unsplash.jpg?resize=240%2C300&ssl=1 240w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sixteen-miles-out-0I75875sRVU-unsplash.jpg?resize=768%2C959&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sixteen-miles-out-0I75875sRVU-unsplash.jpg?resize=1229%2C1536&ssl=1 1229w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sixteen-miles-out-0I75875sRVU-unsplash.jpg?resize=1140%2C1424&ssl=1 1140w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sixteen-miles-out-0I75875sRVU-unsplash.jpg?w=1500&ssl=1 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 820px) 100vw, 820px" /></figure> </figure> <h2 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-center">Let’s be friends!</h2> <ul class="wp-block-social-links aligncenter has-large-icon-size is-layout-flex wp-block-social-links-is-layout-flex"><li class="wp-social-link wp-social-link-instagram wp-block-social-link"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/learning.to.bloom/" class="wp-block-social-link-anchor"><svg width="24" height="24" viewBox="0 0 24 24" version="1.1" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path 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M13.8,14.1c0.5-0.3,0.9-0.7,1.3-1.1c0.3-0.5,0.6-1,0.8-1.6c0.2-0.6,0.3-1.2,0.3-1.9 c0-0.6-0.1-1.2-0.2-1.9c-0.1-0.6-0.4-1.2-0.7-1.7c-0.3-0.5-0.7-0.9-1.3-1.2c-0.5-0.3-1.1-0.5-1.9-0.5s-1.4,0.2-1.9,0.5 c-0.5,0.3-1,0.7-1.3,1.2C8.5,6.4,8.3,7,8.1,7.6C8,8.2,7.9,8.9,7.9,9.5c0,0.6,0.1,1.3,0.2,1.9C8.3,12,8.6,12.5,8.9,13 c0.3,0.5,0.8,0.8,1.3,1.1c0.5,0.3,1.1,0.4,1.9,0.4C12.7,14.5,13.3,14.4,13.8,14.1z"></path></svg><span class="wp-block-social-link-label screen-reader-text">Goodreads</span></a></li></ul><p>The post <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2025/02/16/10-ways-to-reduce-stress-in-your-life/">10 Ways to Reduce Stress in Your Life</a> first appeared on <a href="https://learningtobloom.com">Learning to Bloom</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2025/02/16/10-ways-to-reduce-stress-in-your-life/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">6387</post-id> </item> <item> <title>5 Self Care Areas I Focus on Weekly</title> <link>https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2020/09/23/5-self-care-areas-i-focus-on-weekly/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=5-self-care-areas-i-focus-on-weekly</link> <comments>https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2020/09/23/5-self-care-areas-i-focus-on-weekly/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Samantha]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2020 16:00:00 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self Care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[connection]]></category> <category><![CDATA[creativity]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mindfulness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mindset]]></category> <category><![CDATA[movement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[nourishment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[stress management]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://learningtobloom.com/?p=1843</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>If you’ve been reading my blog since the beginning, you’ll know that self-care is a topic and practice that is so important to me. Many of my ideas for blog posts come from one of five self-care areas that I value the most for my anxiety management and quality of life! These areas are constantly evolving and changing. Some weeks one area may be more of a priority than others. I should also note that I do struggle with guilt when I feel like I am not giving enough time to one of these areas on a given week but the truth is, even if I am focusing more on one area over the other, prioritizing any one of these areas is aligning with my values and that is something to be celebrated! So, maybe you’re wondering where you even start in selecting 5 areas of self-care to focus on. My best advice would be to first identify your personal values. What is most important to you? What lights you up? What brings you pure joy? From there, you can’t go wrong! Below are the five self-care areas I focus on weekly in some capacity or another. Movement My relationship with exercise has been difficult at best. Sometimes I feel so on point with my workouts and then other times I feel like I am constantly fighting with my body and mind to get moving. Despite it all, I know the value of moving my body and the impact it has on my mental health and that is one of the main reasons it is 1 of my 5! I aim to move my body a little bit every day even if it’s just a short walk or taking the stairs instead of an escalator or elevator. Nourishment My relationship with food over the years is even more complicated than my relationship with exercise. For full disclosure, this is one area that has been the most unprioritized of the bunch. In this area, I not only focus on nourishing my body with good food, but I have to focus a lot on how food makes me feel physically and mentally. Food guilt is something I have struggled with for as long as I can remember and is still part of my daily life. I have to really listen to my inner thoughts when it comes to the foods that I eat. I aim to allow myself to eat in an unrestricted way (I don’t diet) and to not label foods as good and bad. I am working on honoring the way my body feels and listening to the cues it is giving me. You can read more about my intended approach here! Mindfulness/Stress Management This area is super important to me! I am the type of person who carries their stress around with them. I suffer from perfectionism and imposter syndrome and have to work every single day to keep those stressful and anxious feelings at bay. Some days it’s easier and others it’s sooooo difficult and honestly, sometimes I am just not successful. Accepting that has been a healing practice all it’s own! For this self-care area I work a lot on personal development and one of my goals for the rest of 2020 is to practice daily gratitude. Gratitude is one of the best ways I have found to help manage my stress and anxiety. This area is a daily struggle but it’s totally worth it! Connection I work really hard to set healthy boundaries with the people in my life. I am an introvert through and through but connecting with the people I love really lights me up in the best way. Lockdown has really put a damper on things this year but I think it has also encouraged people to get more creative on how they can connect with their loved ones, even the ones they have been in lockdown with! For my husband and I, working on different projects give us the “me” time we both need. But we also make sure we are spending quality unplugged time together that we need to keep our relationship fulfilled. It’s not always easy but my personal relationships mean the world to me and focusing on connection is my way of living a fulfilled and happy life that aligns with my values. Creativity I need a creative outlet in my life. Without it, I find it harder to manage my stress. I went from immersing myself in creativity every single day in college to finding it difficult to be creative at all after I had graduated. College was 4 of the best years of my life and I attribute that to great friends and also having that creative outlet every day in the form of studying theatre. When I started doing this work to figure out my own self-care practice, I knew creativity had to be part of it! I am grateful to have this blog as a creative outlet but have also started to recognize how creativity shows up in other areas of my life! The smile that’s on my face while I am decorating my house for the holidays or the satisfaction I get from sharing a meal I have prepared with my loved ones has really cemented the importance of creativity in my life and my personal self-care practice! What is one area of self-care that you focus on weekly? Share it in the comments below or over on Instagram!</p> <p>The post <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2020/09/23/5-self-care-areas-i-focus-on-weekly/">5 Self Care Areas I Focus on Weekly</a> first appeared on <a href="https://learningtobloom.com">Learning to Bloom</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If you’ve been reading my blog since the beginning, you’ll know that self-care is a topic and practice that is so important to me. Many of my ideas for blog posts come from one of five self-care areas that I value the most for my anxiety management and quality of life! These areas are constantly evolving and changing. Some weeks one area may be more of a priority than others. I should also note that I do struggle with guilt when I feel like I am not giving enough time to one of these areas on a given week but the truth is, even if I am focusing more on one area over the other, prioritizing any one of these areas is aligning with my values and that is something to be celebrated!</p> <p>So, maybe you’re wondering where you even start in selecting 5 areas of self-care to focus on. My best advice would be to first identify your personal values. What is most important to you? What lights you up? What brings you pure joy? From there, you can’t go wrong!</p> <p>Below are the five self-care areas I focus on weekly in some capacity or another.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Movement</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="879" height="1024" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=879%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1953" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=879%2C1024&ssl=1 879w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=258%2C300&ssl=1 258w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=768%2C894&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?resize=1319%2C1536&ssl=1 1319w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192050.jpg?w=1485&ssl=1 1485w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 879px) 100vw, 879px" /></figure> <p>My relationship with exercise has been difficult at best. Sometimes I feel so on point with my workouts and then other times I feel like I am constantly fighting with my body and mind to get moving. Despite it all, I know the value of moving my body and the impact it has on my mental health and that is one of the main reasons it is 1 of my 5! I aim to move my body a little bit every day even if it’s just a short walk or taking the stairs instead of an escalator or elevator.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nourishment</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200916_175524.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1952" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200916_175524.jpg?resize=768%2C1025&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200916_175524.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200916_175524.jpg?resize=1151%2C1536&ssl=1 1151w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200916_175524.jpg?w=1497&ssl=1 1497w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <p>My relationship with food over the years is even more complicated than my relationship with exercise. For full disclosure, this is one area that has been the most unprioritized of the bunch. In this area, I not only focus on nourishing my body with good food, but I have to focus a lot on how food makes me feel physically and mentally. Food guilt is something I have struggled with for as long as I can remember and is still part of my daily life. I have to really listen to my inner thoughts when it comes to the foods that I eat. I aim to allow myself to eat in an unrestricted way (I don’t diet) and to not label foods as good and bad. I am working on honoring the way my body feels and listening to the cues it is giving me. You can read more about my intended approach <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2018/04/01/a-new-approach/">here</a>!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mindfulness/Stress Management</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192223.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1954" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192223.jpg?resize=768%2C1025&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192223.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192223.jpg?resize=1151%2C1536&ssl=1 1151w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192223.jpg?w=1497&ssl=1 1497w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <p>This area is super important to me! I am the type of person who carries their stress around with them. I suffer from perfectionism and imposter syndrome and have to work every single day to keep those stressful and anxious feelings at bay. Some days it’s easier and others it’s sooooo difficult and honestly, sometimes I am just not successful. Accepting that has been a healing practice all it’s own! For this self-care area I work a lot on personal development and one of <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2020/09/09/some-goals-for-the-rest-of-2020/">my goals for the rest of 2020</a> is to practice daily gratitude. Gratitude is one of the best ways I have found to help manage my stress and anxiety. This area is a daily struggle but it’s totally worth it!</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Connection</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="768" height="1024" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_194036.jpg?resize=768%2C1024&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1958" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_194036.jpg?resize=768%2C1025&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_194036.jpg?resize=225%2C300&ssl=1 225w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_194036.jpg?resize=1151%2C1536&ssl=1 1151w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_194036.jpg?w=1497&ssl=1 1497w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /></figure> <p>I work really hard to set healthy boundaries with the people in my life. I am an introvert through and through but connecting with the people I love really lights me up in the best way. Lockdown has really put a damper on things this year but I think it has also encouraged people to get more creative on how they can connect with their loved ones, even the ones they have been in lockdown with! For my husband and I, working on different projects give us the “me” time we both need. But we also make sure we are spending quality unplugged time together that we need to keep our relationship fulfilled. It’s not always easy but my personal relationships mean the world to me and focusing on connection is my way of living a fulfilled and happy life that aligns with my values.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Creativity</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img data-recalc-dims="1" loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="716" src="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192503.jpg?resize=960%2C716&ssl=1" alt="" class="wp-image-1955" srcset="https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192503.jpg?resize=1024%2C764&ssl=1 1024w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192503.jpg?resize=300%2C224&ssl=1 300w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192503.jpg?resize=768%2C573&ssl=1 768w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192503.jpg?resize=1536%2C1146&ssl=1 1536w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192503.jpg?w=2001&ssl=1 2001w, https://i0.wp.com/learningtobloom.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/20200922_192503.jpg?w=1920&ssl=1 1920w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure> <p>I need a creative outlet in my life. Without it, I find it harder to manage my stress. I went from immersing myself in creativity every single day in college to finding it difficult to be creative at all after I had graduated. College was 4 of the best years of my life and I attribute that to great friends and also having that creative outlet every day in the form of studying theatre. When I started doing this work to figure out my own self-care practice, I knew creativity had to be part of it! I am grateful to have this blog as a creative outlet but have also started to recognize how creativity shows up in other areas of my life! The smile that’s on my face while I am decorating my house for the holidays or the satisfaction I get from sharing a meal I have prepared with my loved ones has really cemented the importance of creativity in my life and my personal self-care practice!</p> <h2 class="has-text-align-center wp-block-heading">What is one area of self-care that you focus on weekly? Share it in the comments below or over on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/learning.to.bloom/">Instagram</a>!</h2><p>The post <a href="https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2020/09/23/5-self-care-areas-i-focus-on-weekly/">5 Self Care Areas I Focus on Weekly</a> first appeared on <a href="https://learningtobloom.com">Learning to Bloom</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://learningtobloom.com/index.php/2020/09/23/5-self-care-areas-i-focus-on-weekly/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> <post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1843</post-id> </item> </channel> </rss> <!-- Performance optimized by W3 Total Cache. Learn more: https://www.boldgrid.com/w3-total-cache/ Served from: learningtobloom.com @ 2025-03-16 00:11:01 by W3 Total Cache -->