Stress Awareness Month

By Susan Hickey

After two years of a pandemic, stress is something we are all too familiar with. Unfortunately, while stress has always been a part of our lives, COVID-19 and its complications have increased the burden on the mental health of many Americans. Stress management is essential to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. There are many ways to cope with the challenges that various stressors bring to our lives.

Your YMCA membership can help by providing outlets for relieving stress. You might not be aware of some of these benefits. Some suggestions for managing stress and its effects on our lives include:

• Exercise. At least 30 minutes a day most days doing something you enjoy (this is key) can help through endorphin release (“feel-good” chemicals produced by the brain). Obviously there are multiple options for getting plenty of exercise at the Y. Running, cycling, swimming, strength training and yoga are just a few suggestions.
• Attend a group fitness class. The YMCA offers a multitude of group classes to help you burn calories, increase strength, and experience interpersonal relationships with others.  Working out can be a lot of fun in a group setting. Check out the YMCA website or app for schedules of available classes at a Y that is convenient for you. 
• Improve your nutrition. So many of us are guilty of making poor food choices to help us “feel better” when we are stressed. Ultimately, these choices often lead to us feeling worse, either due to gastric distress or due to weight gain. The nutritionists at the Y can help get you on the right path to healthy choices that can also help decrease stress. You can learn more about that here.
• Chat with others. The YMCA offers wellness coaching that can allow you to meet with a professional on an individual basis to help inspire you to meet your overall lifestyle goals. Coaches can provide accountability and help you focus on putting your needs first. Many times when we are experiencing stress, it can be difficult to take time to regroup and rejuvenate ourselves.
• Take a break. Utilize child watch and let your kids have fun playing with their peers while you rest. Bring a book, have a seat at one of the tables with your favorite beverages, and chill for a little while. Your kids will enjoy playtime and you will pick them up ready to face whatever challenges the afternoon might bring.

If stress is preventing you from fully enjoying your family or your life, take advantage of the programs and opportunities that the Y can offer through your membership. Through the YMCA we can develop healthier habits which help us be more resilient to life’s challenges.