Manage Stress By Stopping To Smell The Roses

Today I was reminded how important it is to stop and smell the roses.   This reminder came from the unlikeliest of sources....George, my cheeky scamp of a dog! 

I was particularly wound up this morning from a long to-do list and too many interruptions.   So I decided to take my dog for a walk.   I started out walking briskly to get rid of the stress.   Except my dog had other ideas.  He wanted to stop and sniff every pillar, post and pole and each time he stopped and jerked on the lead, I got a sense of him thinking “Chill out man, stop and sniff the pillar”.

That had two effects.  First I burst out laughing.   Secondly, it was a timely reminder of how appreciating the world around me, including my 3-month old puppy, can help me relax from stress.

Appreciation is the act of recognising or understanding that something is valuable and important.   Research shows that appreciation has many health benefits, including increased wellness, health and happiness.   The benefits of a regular practice of appreciation can include:

1.       Stronger immune system
2.       Lower blood pressure
3.       Better sleeping patterns
4.       Higher levels of positive emotions
5.       Feeling more alert, alive, and awake
6.       Feeling more optimism, happiness, joy and pleasure
7.       Feeling more helpful, generous, forgiving and compassionate

When was the last time you stopped to smell the roses, or just stopped, looked around and appreciated what’s around you?
So how can you appreciate the world around you?

1.       Go outside and take a walk in nature.
2.       Pay attention to the little things.
3.       Slow down!  What’s the rush?
4.       Laugh with friends, family, pets and children
5.       Make a list of everything you’re thankful for.

I’d love to hear about the things you appreciate!  Please tell me about them!

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