A Woman's Guide to Coping with Stress and Improving Wellness

Stress is an inevitable part of everyday life. As a woman, you face unique stressors, such as trying to get pregnant—or, in case of an unplanned pregnancy, putting a child up for adoption. When hurdles like these arise, it's important to manage the ensuing stress with dedicated self-care. This guide from Life After Placement highlights some ways women can cope with the daily grind and improve their overall wellness.

Make your home an oasis of calm

Feeling your best starts at home. You want a zen place where you can retreat from the world when you need a moment of peace. The Washingtonian offers actionable advice for making your house more serene, such as adding luxurious throw blankets and incorporating more plants and flowers. Try to address all five senses when creating your calming space. For example, you might also add aromatherapy candles and relaxing music.

Establish a diet and exercise plan that works for you

A healthy diet and regular exercise will help you feel your best. The key to a healthy diet and exercise regimen is establishing a routine that works for you. If you don't like cooking, don't try elaborate recipes. There are plenty of healthy meals you can cook in less than 20 minutes. If you're not motivated to work out, treat yourself to some new exercise clothes to get inspired. High-waisted leggings are flattering and comfy.

Find productive ways to regulate emotions during stressful times

You can't cut stress out of your life completely. However, you can change the way you react to stressful events. Perhaps in the past, you'd reach for unhealthy habits like a drink or cigarette. Try to pivot and embrace healthier coping mechanisms instead. For example, meditating can help calm your nervous system, relaxing your body and mind. You can also try simple breathing exercises, journaling, or visualization to get calm.

Tackle issues that are stressing you out head-on

Make a list of the things that stress you out. There may be items on your list that consistently bother you that are worth changing. Your job is one example. If you aren't happy in your career, an online master's degree can open up new job opportunities. For example, an MBA can teach skills like marketing, human capital management, accounting, and economics. The benefit of an online program is its flexibility, as you can do it alongside your job. Whatever you choose, remember that career advancement can contribute to your overall wellness when you keep stress reduction top of mind.

Reframe your mindset with positive self-talk

Negative thinking can weigh you down and add to your daily stress. banish that mindset with positive self-talk. Delaware Psychological Services provide a how-to guide to positive self-talk. They recommend practicing gratitude, talking to yourself like you would a friend, and changing your vocabulary. It can also be helpful to take a timeout when you notice negative vibes creeping in.

Invest in your appearance to look and feel great

When you look good, your confidence will increase, and you'll feel good too. Ramp up your appearance with a wardrobe makeover. This step-by-step guide explains how, from decluttering to separating items according to season. You'll make room for new pieces that you love.

Establish a support network you can count on

Sometimes you can't manage stress alone. It's important to reach out for help in these instances. Having a solid group of friends or family you can turn to is invaluable. Regular socializing is also good for mental health. If you're dealing with more profound issues, like putting a child up for adoption, finding an online community of like-minded women can be useful. They'll know what you're going through.

There isn't one single solution to banishing stress and enhancing wellness. Instead, there are many small steps that can help you feel better and more energized. The above guide covers a few highlights.

Auther: Gwen Payne

For more content to help women who have placed a child for adoption, visit Life After Placement.