How to Combat the Stress of Violence

I was startled awake from my daily 15 min. power nap by a phone call from my husband. He told me that there had been two explosions at the Boston Marathon. One of our sons was running in the marathon and my thoughts instantly turned to him. I was so proud to hear of his courage to run this race of all races. The Boston Marathon had long been in my mind the ultimate triumph. Now I was worried about him and wondered if he was safe. I texted our daughter and asked if he was alright. She quickly texted back and said that he had finished long before the explosions. I was relieved to hear this, but I was in anguish for the ones injured and their families.

How do we combat the stress of an uncertain world. As good citizens we can support our law and fight for the freedoms contained in our constitution. We can be proactive in fighting for the laws that we value the most. Becoming active in our communities and standing up for what we believe will help us feel proactive in the midst of the violence. We can support our troops and our local law officers. Good people will always win if we stick together.

We need to stay strong mentally also. Mental health is at risk with the violence around us. There are steps we can take to combat this threat.

1. Make sure to exercise regularly. Exercise will get the good endorphins flowing and is a good way to control depression and anxiety. Running is a great way to get out there and stay healthy. Walking is good to. Find an activity that gives you enjoyment and fulfillment. Yoga, weight lifting, biking, skating, swimming, and anything that gets your heart rate up will combat stress. If exercise is to overwhelming, find fitness in everyday tasks. Sweep the floor faster, or climb the stairs instead of taking the elevator. Anything that gets your heart pumping will combat stress.


2. Take the time to seek out friends and family. Call someone and ask them how they are doing. Go to lunch with your co-workers. Reach out to others that you know are suffering. The kindness that you show to them will go a long way. Service to others will always reduce stress.


3. Seek out alternative remedies to depression and anxiety. Medication is a good method to keep severe mental illness under control, but many times it becomes ineffective or doesn't address the chemical imbalance. Look for other natural methods that could help you. Hypnosis is becoming a great alternative to medication. Herbal medication can help when you need to balance the chemicals in your body. Massage therapy is another strategy that will help you combat stress, depression and anxiety. The human touch can be very healing.

In a world filled with stress and uncertainty make sure that you find a way to stay strong and healthy. We will all face hardship in this life. Take care of yourself and be an advocate for good. Pay attention to your stress level and take measures to manage it. Then you can be there for your family and friends when they need you.

Gina Dawson is the author of runnersky.net the online resource for helpful running hints and self pampering products. She also collects photos of runners pictures and running trail finds. Visit us and share with us your stress management techniques, running photos and trails.

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