Feeling Pretty Anxious

(Photo from http://kristinebruneau.com)

I have a lot going on and feel very blessed with where I am. However, I must admit that I am feeling pretty stressed or anxious. I have a lot I need to get done for the end of the school year at work, I need to work on wedding planning, on top of this dissertation that won't go away. I would be lying if I said I never get anxious when I think about it. I need to just relax, make a plan, and work the plan. I am determined to do this and do this well. What do you do when feeling anxious? What helps you? I know... I know... I'm a counselor. I know a lot about anxiety, but I am willing to learn more strategies.

Dear Stress, I Refuse to Let You Win!

(Photo from: ttp://iusedtohavehair.files.wordpress.com)

I have been feeling anxious for over 24 hours. I think working on my dissertation has helped me to understand the depth of what I have left to do. All of this, with a very busy, stressful, and emotional day at work has me feeling exhausted and of course... worried. I know what helps decrease anxiety, proper nutrition, exercise, good sleep, deep breathing, journaling (or blogging)... and the list goes on. I a determined maintain as much balance through this process so, I am forcing myself to stop writing and go to bed before 10:00. I plan to walk tomorrow and spend at least two months meditating. What do you do when you are beginning to feel stress?

I'm Back, AGAIN!

I have not blogged in about two weeks. I miss blogging, but lately I have been feeling so overwhelmed that blogging hasn't been one of my top priorities. I am juggling so many balls right now. I'm pursuing my school counseling license, preparing for my dissertation proposal meeting, finishing my PhD, working, dealing with personal things, planning a wedding, and there may be some things I am missing. I have so much to catch you up on. In spite of the stress and the many tasks I have, I feel so blessed and I am happy that my mood is still fairly upbeat. That is something I will continue to monitor.

Are you Getting Enough Sleep?

(Photo of http://www.onlineschools.org)

The first chapter was on sleep. I know I don't get enough sleep, but I also learned that you should limit your naps to an hour. I also learned that lack of sleep increases a stress hormone that is linked to obesity. Now, that is something that I absolutely do not want more of. I need to get up and go to sleep everyday at the same time and make sure I get at least seven hours. I am going to try to sleep at 11 and get up at 6:30. I originally thought I would work out in the morning, but right now, I think I will do it after work until I get on a better schedule. I am actually going to try to start this schedule today and use it over the weekend. What is your sleep schedule like?

Time is Ticking...

One day left. Tomorrow is the last day before my dissertation proposal is due. Now, it's due anytime on Thursday. So, theoretically, I can work on it Thursday, too. We will see how much I get done. Monday I had a huge set-back. I spent five hours, five hours I will never get back by the way, trying to print articles. My best friend also had some things happen in her life, so I had to put this on the back-burner. Even though she is going through something, she has still been supportive of me and even allowed me to vent briefly. Surprisingly, I am not feeling overly stressed and I am pushing forward. Tonight will probably be a loooooooong night. Wish me luck!

Silly Faces: My Stress Reliever

Humor has been linked to tons of health benefits, including reduced stress. So, here is me with my nephews being silly. For those of you have seen me with kids, you know I can be silly as they are. Of course, I clean, vacuum, and organize when it's over, but hey that's me. Sometimes it's just good to be a little silly.

DEADLINE APPROACHING

(Photo from clipartof.com)

For some reason I thought it would be a great idea to count how many days before my proposal is due. The answer is 12. I am sure I can do it, but when I think about it, my stomach feels queasy, and my heart rate increases. Keep me in your thoughts and prayers. Say it with me... You can do it!!