5 Easy-to-Implement Stress Management Reminders

"I learned about stress management from my kids. Every night after work, I drink some chocolate milk, eat sugary cereal straight from the box, then run around the house in my underwear screaming like a monkey."

— Randy Glasbergen

Let's be real for a second: whether you're a SAHM or a busy professional right now, we're not just juggling work and life. We're also quietly stress-scrolling news. Often.

Between tariff tensions, AI evolving faster than your to-do list, and the constant buzz of unpredictable Wall Street updates directly and indirectly affecting us all. Whew! It's a lot.

And it's not just about stress. It's about uncertainty fatigue. The kind of mental load that no time management app, bubble bath, or mindfulness hack can quickly fix for good.

You don't need a reminder that things feel off.

But here's the good news: while we can't control geopolitical chess moves or technological revolutions, we can change how we show up. We have the agency to be calm internally despite the external chaos. And no, I don't claim to know a way to fix the stress we're navigating. Because the truth is, there's nothing any of us can "fix" right now.

What I do have, though, are a few suggestions to stay calm. Ideas that don't involve meditating on a mountaintop, moving to a cabin in the woods, or downloading another productivity app. Today's post offers simple suggestions to help reduce stress. There's nothing new under the sun, you probably know al these.

So why read on?

Because it's not what we know, but what we do with what we know that works. Consider this a yellow post-it note, a gentle nudge to implement information.

As always, my writing is primarily based on personal experience, as well as client work, observation, and research. Take what feels right for you and leave the rest.

Now, let's talk about it.

5 simple ways to feel in charge, even when the world is chaotic.

1. Laugh Because It Helps

For real. It does.

Often referred to as the best medicine, and for good reason, because of its profound impact on both our mental and physical well-being.

When we laugh, our bodies release endorphins, the feel-good hormones that promote happiness and relaxation, while also reducing cortisol, the stress hormone.

Getting more laughter into your day can be a simple yet effective way to manage stress. Comedy, memes (my guilty pleasure), funny videos, or dad joke competitions are quick ways to lighten up and get a much-needed break from the messiness of life.

Here's an idea: instead of endless lamenting at the family dinner table with the (bad) TV news in the background, try a Dad Joke Challenge: Everyone takes turns sharing their best (or worst) dad jokes. The goal is to make each other laugh, and you can even keep score for the funniest jokes.

I'll go first: "Why don't skeletons fight each other? They don't have the guts!"

Super corny, I know :-) But I'll take that over hearing about flip-flopping tariff wars and consequent global financial ups and downs.

Such a playful challenge builds connection and creates an atmosphere of joy, helping to lighten the mood and combat stress.

2. Dance Like No One's Watching

"Oh, I wanna dance with somebody," Whitney Houston, anyone?

Get your groove on and go dancing with your friends. Or play some praise gospel music like Mary Mary's "Take the Shackles Off My Feet" and dance freely in your living room or a private space. Choose music that makes you feel good and let loose without worrying about how you look.

If you can do it without running out of breath, sing along. Have fun, enjoy the music, and move your body; it's a great way to regulate your nervous system.

Dancing is an easy way to shake off and spontaneously release pent-up energy and stress. Dancing, singing and nose-in-a-book are some of my happy places. What are your happy places?

3. Experiment With Adaptogens

Adaptogens are natural substances that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. These potent herbs and plants support the adrenal system, regulate hormone levels, and enhance the body's resilience to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors.

Some popular ones include Rhodiola Rosea, Ginseng, Holy Basil (Tulsi), Schisandra Berry, Maca Root, Ashwagandha, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane Mushroom. Over the years, I've tried Maca, Lion's Mane, and Ginseng on and off.

But I always returned and stuck with Ashwagandha drops and Tulsi tea. I get both on Amazon (which can be hit or miss), so I'm happy with the continued great experiences.

Incorporating adaptogens can provide numerous health benefits, including improved immune function and enhanced cognitive performance. They help the body adapt to stress and promote overall balance and well-being.

*Disclaimer: This information is not intended as medical advice, but for educational purposes only. It is essential that you consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement. Especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have existing health conditions, or are taking medications, as adaptogens can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for you.

If you experiment, source high-quality products, and consider working with a functional practitioner or a naturopathic doctor. Follow recommended dosages to maximize their benefits safely.

4. Nature's "5-4-3-2-1" Grounding Technique

When feeling overwhelmed, step outside or look out of a window and engage your senses using the "5-4-3-2-1" technique: identify
5 things you can see,
4 things you can touch,
3 things you can hear,
2 things you can smell, and
1 thing you can taste.

I first learned this while working with my counselor.

It's a well-known, easy practice to help us ground ourselves in the present moment and reduce stress by reconnecting us with our environment. I especially love it during walks in the park.

An alternative would be Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku), the Japanese practice of engaging all your senses to connect with nature. Instead of just walking in the forest, sit, breathe deeply, and observe the sights, sounds, and smells around you.

5. Build a "Worry Portfolio"

Got stressful thoughts running wild, especially when you try to sleep? Grab a notepad and consider writing them down like you're managing risky assets.

Label each worry: High Risk, Low Control, Low Risk, High Influence.

This idea, although slightly different from my preferred way of thinking on paper, journaling (which is not for everyone), a worry portfolio, is a great way to declutter your mind.

It reduces emotional reactivity and helps reclaim cognitive clarity.

Closing Thoughts

And that's all I have today. No rocket science here, but as mentioned, it's not what we know but what we do with what we know that makes a difference. Stress management is a form of self-care that offers compound benefits for both our personal and professional lives.

We can't change what's currently going on around us, but we can change how we navigate the inevitable.

Feel free to share your favorite stress management tip below. And thank you for being here today.

Happy de-stressing!

Do you need professional facilitation with your well-being and stress management?

I'd be happy to hear about your needs, as I offer individual and team solutions in the form of programs or products.

To determine if/how I can best support you, let's start a conversation.

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