HALT your Stress

I am always interested in handy acronyms that remind us of markers of emotional vulnerability to target in our self-care.

 Feeling Hungry? Eating regularly is not just about addressing physical hunger. The nutrients found in food are critical for the entire body to function optimally. Our brain is often overlooked as requiring food. When the brain is starved of nutrition, thinking processes deteriorate. So, whether you feel like eating or not, your body requires a steady fuel supply to maintain metabolism and energy levels.

 Anger was recently discussed as not a bad emotion.  It can however go undetected when it is paired with feeling hurt, ashamed, nervous, annoyed, grumpy or rejected, to name a few. The problem with anger is that it can drive you to do and say things you wouldn’t normally. Anger can trigger an impulsive response compared to when we feel calm.

 Being home alone with young children for long periods of time can feel Lonely. While we may accept it is part of the role, we all need a regular dose of social interaction. Ensuring that you check in through the day with someone, allows you to access supportive feedback and a sounding board for anything difficult you are facing.

 You may think that feeling Tired is path of the course to motherhood but it also has a significant impact on physical and emotional status. Prioritising quality sleep and rest will do wonders for your wellbeing. 

 This acronym literally asks you to STOP and review the above factors at times when you are feeling run down or overwhelmed. If you find one of the factors is relevant to you, take action. Eat something even if it’s just a simple snack. Don’t wallow in anger go and do something to take your mind off it. Seek out company if you feel alone. I know what you are thinking, getting enough sleep is hard. It doesn’t mean you can’t try to get to bed early or make time to rest. Just addressing one factor will help you start to feel better.