Monday, December 17, 2012

Teaching this Pup new tricks with Stress

Teaching this Pup new tricks with Stress

          Hopefully I will catch a few of you.  You see recently I had an adventure with  Christmas Shopping, the side walk, and the emergency room.  Just one the weekend I collapsed and it really looked like I just missed the step up to the curb.  If you looked closer you would realize something was seriously wrong.  My arms were underneath me and not out stretched to catch myself.  Needless to say I'm banged up and in need of more x-rays yet that part doesn't bother me so much. 
          What does?  Well I was told either I have advanced BTM or to explain it in simpler terms A-typical Full Sensory Migraine which means my body shut down at the brain stem area.  Then there is the possibility I am having pre-heart attack symptoms.  End result is a lot of testing to be done over the holidays to find out which one and why.  Here is the kicker: I am 42 years of age. 
          I have been accused in the past of having a Stoic personality.  Everything just rolls off of me.  I laugh, giggle and joke around.  I push through anything and everything without even a hint of difficulty or worry.  When it does occur I ask others to stand with me for any required assistance.  I delegate the worry part.  :)  There was this employer once that said "It will be Less Stress on you."  Well I can now say that this is what stress looks like for me and I never had stress in that job.  People's perceptions without knowing the individual.  Does get annoying.  Not stressful to me...just annoying.  Yet, perceptions go rampant this time of year.  Don't they? 
          Anyways, I have learned a few things that are not new and that I have applied before.  Most people tend to forget them.  The reason I am mentioning them is due to the time of year and well the emergency room is usually overly busy this time of year.  These tips may help keep you out of the hospital with a little organizing and paying attention to details and time.
  1. While partying this season.  Book evenings that are planned relaxation.  Like a movie (go early to avoid line-ups and bring good conversation.) or quiet night in. (no fuss, no muss)
  2. Reduce the drinking.  Personally I have one or two every other year, yet for some people this time of year gets pretty rowdy.  Seriously think about reducing the intake as it can complicate any stress physical reaction you may have.  It causes diagnostic difficulty at the hospital. 
  3. Give yourself plenty of time to do anything.  Getting ready to go.  Making a meal.  Driving (think of traffic ad parking issues).  Shopping time.
  4. Ladies if you are overwhelmed with any of it.  Book a pillow date.  Pound the stuffing out of it, squeeze it to heck, vent into it, call a buddy and vent.  Don't let it eat you up.
  5. Delegate things that need to be done.  I know everyone is busy with their own things.  Seriously teens can still help out and friends can still have a coffee over gift wrapping.  Just ask nicely.
  6. Book your own down time.  A long bath.  A half hour walk.  Something.
  7. Snow shovelers.  Smaller amounts at one time.  Recruit some help. 
  8. Cut back on how many outings you will be attending.  Keep the most important ones.  Throw out the rest and book those individuals for a coffee or light lunch tea later.
  9. I am adding this for those who do it.  Add in a little extra prayer time.
          Doing these things will reduce the stress risk of heart and stroke problems, migraines, emotional concerns, stomach and bowel problems, and weakness issues etc.  They will also reduce accidents in the kitchen, while at play, and with ice related falls.  For those who know they have stress conditions really pay attention to the body and emotional signs. 
          I don't even know if my condition (whatever it is) is a stress condition.  I do know it is a health and life concern.  Either way these tips apply for a safer and happier holiday season. 
          Make safety plans for a safer season to enjoy loved ones and to have a really good start to the new year!  Here's to good health!

Nadine Seely
Organizing Coach/life planner
DustBunnyHell

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