Stress-busting skills to try in everyday life
Life Kit
Deep Dive
What is the main focus of the Stress Less series by NPR?
The Stress Less series focuses on managing stress rather than eliminating it, offering evidence-based strategies to help people increase positive emotions and cultivate joy in their lives.
Who is Judith Moskowitz and what is her contribution to stress management?
Judith Moskowitz is a research psychologist at Northwestern University who has spent years studying effective strategies to help people increase positive emotions and cope with stress, even in challenging situations like metastatic breast cancer, caregiving, or pandemic-related stress.
What is the first takeaway for managing stress according to the episode?
The first takeaway is to spend more time noticing positive events, as humans tend to focus on negative experiences. Savoring small positive moments, like enjoying a cup of coffee, can help build coping skills and boost positive emotions.
How does practicing gratitude impact health and longevity?
Practicing gratitude is linked to a 10% lower likelihood of premature death, improved physical health, and better mental health. Studies, including one with Vietnam War veterans, show it can increase well-being and reduce symptoms of PTSD.
What is the role of mindfulness in stress management?
Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It helps build the foundation for joy and positive emotions by slowing down and focusing on the current experience, such as enjoying the process of washing dishes.
How does deep belly breathing help reduce stress?
Deep belly breathing, or diaphragmatic breathing, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which lowers heart rate, blood pressure, and promotes a sense of calm. It is a quick and effective way to manage stress in moments like traffic or before meetings.
What is positive reappraisal and how can it help in stressful situations?
Positive reappraisal involves finding the bright side of a negative situation. For example, thinking 'it could have been worse' helps reframe the event in a less negative or even positive light, which can reduce stress and improve emotional resilience.
What is self-compassion and why is it important for stress management?
Self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. It counters self-criticism and helps build emotional resilience, which is crucial for managing stress and maintaining mental health.
How can identifying personal strengths help in managing stress?
Identifying personal strengths, such as being a good listener or creative, helps interrupt negative self-criticism spirals. It allows individuals to set attainable goals aligned with their strengths, fostering a sense of control and accomplishment.
What is the overall message of the Stress Less series?
The series emphasizes that stress management is a skill that requires practice. By combining techniques like noticing positive events, gratitude, mindfulness, and self-compassion, individuals can build resilience and experience more joy in their lives.
- It's not realistic to eliminate stress, but managing it makes a difference.
- The series focuses on evidence-based skills to increase positive emotion and cultivate joy.
- Skills work in any situation, even for cynical people.
- Research shows skills work for anyone, no matter the type of stress.
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