Today I would like to talk a bit about good stress vs. bad stress and how it can affect our health and family life.
We all know that expectations and therefore also stress and anxiety are part of adult life, and especially as parents, when the family life also depends on us there is so much more weight on our shoulders. Juggling life’s demands can get us a bit into a twist, but there is more to life than that. What is important in our life?
Here some insight into good stress vs. bad stress:
Good stress, also known as eustress, is the type of stress that motivates us to take action and overcome challenges. It’s the feeling we get when we’re excited about a new project or when we’re pushing ourselves to reach a goal. Good stress can actually be beneficial, helping us to stay focused and alert.
On the other hand, bad stress, or distress, is the type of stress that overwhelms us and leaves us feeling drained and exhausted. It’s the constant worry about meeting deadlines, paying bills, or dealing with conflicts in our relationships. Unlike good stress, which is temporary and manageable, bad stress can have serious consequences for our health if left unchecked and even can become chronic.
It’s important for our family to recognize when we’re experiencing chronic stress and to take steps to support us. That’s what I would like to help you with on your wellbeing journey. Our kids will thank us for looking after ourselves. It starts by being aware of ourselves and what’s going on in our own lives to make a difference in the one of our children.
When we are in distress, we can get very stiff in our body and mind and might just get into a one-track mind to focus on resolving the situation. Especially as a mum, dad, grandparent or minder, dealing with kids on a daily basis, they look up to us and observe how we deal with life, with uncomfortable situations. We are role models, if we like it or not!
Below I give you some ideas for reflection in regards to our approach on stress/anxiety and family life:
1. How do I want my kids to deal with stress and anxiety?
What do I teach them through my behaviour and words? What are the stories I tell myself?
2. How can I and the kids have some fun?!
It’s not all about being serious all the time. Let’s pause real life for a few minutes and have some play time together!
3. How do I communicate with my family?
Let’s practice open communication and talk about our feelings and emotions, the things we go through. It doesn’t just help the children to foster and develop more emotional intelligence, but also helps to take some weight of our shoulders and be more approachable.
What changes can you make?
And don’t forget to take a deep breath in, and a deep breath out – several times a day. It supports us in re-centering and grounding ourselves, in being more present moment.
Let me know how you get on! I would love to hear from you!
Have a great week!
Love and light,
Pia
