A pact to stop using the word "STRESS"

The word stress should be spelled with one 's', so that it becomes a four letter word that is vulgar and prohibited from network television and radio stations.  Ever wonder why as soon as you say, "I am so stressed out," your body automatically believes that there is something physically wrong.  If it is not a physical sensation, the mind tends to take over and emotional negativity sets in.  We say the word often, what does it even mean? We now classify it as 'good' or 'bad'. Let's make a pact to stop using the word all together, because there is nothing positive about it!


The word stress has been associated with human disease, i.e. heart attacks, pimples, etc.  Some use it as an excuse to overcome mundane tasks at work, or to avoid difficult life challenges.  If you feel stress, you are not listening to your body or staying in the present moment, your mind is clouded and consumed by the indescribable sensation that is associated with the word.  However, I would love to know what stress feels like. I am currently negotiating five contracts for my 9-5, trying to build my own business, starting in a brand new field, and finding time for friends and family.  I am not bragging by any means, but I find myself lacking the energy that I need to sustain as an individual as soon as the words "I am stressed" come out of my mouth.  I lose focus and I am suddenly dwelling on the word and I'm consumed with battling the thoughts in my head and the challenge of getting "unstressed" than tackling  a situation or the task at hand.


It is quite fascinating to me how one little word can destroy a body, families, a relationship, a career, or a lifetime.  I have to admit, I use it frequently, and for some reason today it hit me. The fact is we all go through hard times, sometimes overwhelming, and often times things are great. The word causes us to think of all the negative times, outcomes to decisions, or the future, when in fact the key is to make sure we remember to stay present in the moment and to control things that are within our scope of control keeping our minds clear of "the stress cloud".  Remember that the actions and decisions that we make today will affect our tomorrow.  I realize it is tough to do, when your to do list, bills, the IRS, or whatever causes you stress consumes your everyday. I am guilty of promoting "good stress" until it hit me today...there is no such thing. Getting organized and maintaining a clear head is more important than zeroing in on how stressed out I am.  I hope you found this blog helpful, because it stressed me out to complete, just kidding!


This is a pact to stop using the word STRESS. Are you in?


Let's meet on the mat at your next meeting or event. Check out www.themeetingyogi.com for more information or email bana@themeetingyogi.com.

Namaste!

A Little Rest and Relaxation

It is difficult for most of us to walk away from the positions we hold in this life to find a little time for rest and relaxation (R&R). After being on vacation for a week, teaching yoga everyday in Mexico, I realized that I have neglected the importance of a little R&R.  I am back after a week of rest and relaxation to write this blog that will hopefully motivate you to take time for you.  


My original plan was to work through my vacation, as I juggle three ventures, two of which are brand new.  My passion for my job at Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) will always drive me to give 110%.  The thought of influencing youth across the country keeps me going.  My excitement to succeed at building The Meeting Yogi is providing me with the strength and motivation that I need to create that enriching experience for meeting and conference attendees across the country and the world.  My latest adventure is real estate and obtaining my VA Real Estate License and my marketing experience, has forded me the opportunity to join a successful broker, Keller Williams in Old Town Alexandria.  The idea of helping people make one of the most important decisions in their lives will bring me great satisfaction.


As I looked out into the ocean during my vacation, I found myself day dreaming about all three of my ventures, so much so that I was able to create mental notes and come up with great plans and ideas for all three.  I had no access to email and limited access to phone, I merely brainstormed and allowed myself to make small mental notes and be creative. I still focused on the beautiful natural environment and on staying in the present moment.  After all, I was challenging myself to have a fun and a little R&R.  Recharging my battery for what appears to be a busy summer full of new adventures.



Let's meet on the mat at your next meeting or event. Check out www.themeetingyogi.com for more information or email bana@themeetingyogi.com.

Namaste!