How to Bounce Back and Keep Right On Going
By Sandy Schroeder
How resilient are you? Most of us learn how to bounce back from problems as we move through life, but sometimes we need a few clues to stay completely strong when health, finances, or family issues just keep coming.
Hanging onto your resilience can give you a sense of control over life that fights depression and increases pleasure in everyday things. Without strong resilience you may run into a weakened immune system, insomnia, heartburn, indigestion, high blood pressure and heart disease.
If you feel like you could use a few tips right now, here are some good ones from Harvard Health.
Reverse the picture – You may feel burdened with stressful demands every day, but stepping back to count your blessings might change your mind. Most of us are lucky to have pets, kids, a home and friends that are all there for us. Remembering that can help.
Reach out for support – Connecting with your friends or family for coffee, lunch or dinners can provide the needed boost to see things in a more positive light. Every time I lunch with my friends I come away with new ideas and fresh inspirations.
Remember to giggle – Just seeing the funny side can ease the tension, giving you a better perspective on the issues at hand. Scientists say laughing reduces stress hormones and strengthens the immune system. Call up a friend who always makes you laugh, or watch your favorite funny old movie.
Picture something good – Use your imagination to think of positive outcomes for issues when they pop up. Gradually those positive images may even suggest ways to make them happen. They may make the issues seem less intimidating, too.
Pause and just breathe – Reducing the intensity of problems could start with a short break. Step away and sit quietly, letting your breath take the focus. As you breathe in and out the body and the mind have a chance to relax, lowering blood pressure, heart rate and stress impact. Breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, tai chi or guided imagery can help you achieve this feeling of relaxation.
Develop a positive attitude – Instead of automatically asking, “What’s wrong?” start asking, “What’s new?” Look for good things and sometimes you will find them in the midst of everything else. My grandmother was very skilled in doing this. She had several grandchildren and when we all became irritable she could always spot something good to turn the mood around. She was also a great cookie baker, which helped keep the peace.
Wherever you are with resilience, don’t give up. Keep looking for positives and build your ability to rebound step by step.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in San Antonio, Tex.
