Stress is a normal part of life. Whether it is a tight deadline at work, running 10 errands at once, or juggling 100 thoughts that come up during the day, you are likely wondering how you can relieve the stress to create a more peaceful mind and life. Since stress is part of the human experience, it is important to learn how to arm ourselves with ways to accept and reframe our thoughts around these tough situations.
April is National Stress Awareness Month. This month is about learning the negative impact stress has on our body and mind, and what techniques we can use in order to cope with the stress we feel.
So, what can we do to help relieve the stress we are feeling?
- Mindful moments and meditations. Meditation does not have to involve being cross-legged on the ground, humming and chanting. It can be as simple as putting your tasks aside and closing your eyes for 3 minutes. Take 5 big deep breathes and think about 3 things you are grateful for in that day. Remember, the more we practice, the easier meditation and mindfulness will be.
- Stretching and bodily movement. Walking, jogging, dancing, skipping, stretching…you name it. Any movement that you enjoy and can fit into the day will help alleviate some of the stress felt in your body. Even taking a short 10-minute stroll or stretching can relax clear the mind head of overwhelming thoughts.
- Listening to calming music. Music can bring about a sense of belonging, positive feelings of warmth, empathy towards others, and trust. A gentle melody even has the power to change our mood by slowing down our racing heart beat.
- Talking to a friend. Talking about your stressors out loud can help you process your feelings and thoughts around situations. This can lead to better coping skills with the stress. Ask a friend to go for a walk to talk things out, or call a family member to chat on the phone.
Information gathered & adapted from:
https://www.headspace.com/articles/how-to-relieve-stress
Earl Grey Bundt Cake
Servings: 16
Ingredients
4 cups cake flour
2 cups butter or margarine, room temperature
1 Tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups granulated sugar
6 eggs, large
2/3 low-fat milk
1 Tablespoon Earl Grey tea leaves, finely minced
1 Early Grey tea bag
1/2 cup boiling water
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon orange juice
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Generously butter and flour a 12 inch Bundt pan.
- Combine cake flour, baking powder, and salt. With a mixer, beat the sugar with the butter at high speed until light and fluffy. Reduce the speed to medium and beat in the eggs, one at a time, until combined. Beat in the flour mixture alternatively with the low-fat milk. Stir in the tea leaves until combined.
- Pour batter in the Bundt pan. Level the mixture off with a spatula. Bake for 55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs clinging. Cool in pan on a rack for 20-25 minutes.
- Steep the tea bag in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. In a bowl, combine powdered sugar and orange juice. Stir in 2 Tablespoons brewed tea until pourable and pour over the cake. Let is set for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Size: 1 slice
Nutrition Information per Serving: 12.9 grams total fat; 4.7 grams protein; 76.1 grams carbohydrate; 0 grams fiber; 179.3 milligrams sodium; 61.8 milligrams potassium
Recipe adapted from:
Evolution Nutrition
