While as a nurse, you might not have much time for social networks, one we recommend is Pinterest! It is a great way to share awesome photos or tips as well as it helps you organize your thoughts. Think of them as idea boards! If you are on Pinterest, how do you use Pinterest? We would love to follow your boards- follow us and we will follow you back!
One of the most used lines, laughter truly is the best medicine for stress. Going to a comedy club, watching funny movies or goofing off with your friends can lead to lots of laughter and even some new memories to laugh about in the future!
Another fun fact: while you are reading this stretch your face muscles into a smile. Yes, it sounds strange to smile at a screen, but humor yourself and do it. Did you feel, if just for an instant, happier? The muscle movement of smiling actually triggers your limbic system which is connected to your emotions. Crazy how just a few muscle movements (a smile) can change your mood!
While stress can be mentally exhausting, it can also be physically exhausting. Taking some time to simply sleep can help restart your body. While sleep won’t get rid of the stress, it will give your body a chance to rest up and be ready again to take on the stresses of your life. Also, lack of sleep can have a negative impact on your mood which can easily affect your stress levels.
New Year’s Resolutions are very real for the month of January, but then life gets in the way and these resolutions seem to be forgotten about by Valentine’s Day. I think the idea of a new year’s resolution is great, but it covers a very long time. I think resolutions should be done for a shorter amount of time, with smaller, more attainable goals.
For example, instead of saying I want to get in shape. Make the goal of getting into a gym and signed up for a few sessions with the personal trainer. Then push yourself to another level once you have accomplished that goal. I like having lots of small victories that will lead up to the intended goal.
Also, knowing yourself can help determine the kind of resolution you should aim for. If you know you aren’t the type of person to work out, then maybe working out more is not the resolution for you.
Don’t know your resolution? Talk to your friends together you can come up some great ideas!
Here are some resolutions we have at S123:
In the nursing world, a day off is a much needed break from the stress and, sometimes, chaotic work day. Nurses have added stresses that the rest of the world couldn’t really understand unless they have been in a nurse’s shoes. Here are some ideas we have come up with that can help you make the most of your day off!
1.) Time with the family & friends. These are the people who know you best and know what to do when you are stressed or in need of a good time. Hanging out with them, even if it’s just a couple of hours can make your day that much better
2.) Exercising. Something you suggest to your patients when they are stressed or need an outlet. Take your own advice and get active! Whether it’s going to the gym or taking a yoga class in the park with some friends. The work out will help work out your stresses!
3.) Cooking. Chances are, you are not eating the best while at work simply because you don’t have the time! On your day off, cook something special for yourself (and your family if you are feeling generous). Need a place to start? Check out Eating Well’s website for hundreds of recipes! http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes_menus/dinner_ideas
4.) Sleep. An under-rated part of life that you need to catch up on. While technically you can’t make up for lost sleep, sleeping is the body’s natural way of re-charging. Sleeping in or taking a nap during the day is a great way to re-charge so you are ready to tackle the next day at work.
