How should I handle Stress?
Start with the Body: Calming Physical Tension
When stress rises, our bodies often respond first — with a racing heart, tense shoulders, or shallow breathing. Bringing awareness to your body is the first step toward relief.
Try these simple grounding practices:
Take deep, slow breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth, allowing your shoulders to drop.
Move your body. A gentle walk, stretching, yoga, or dancing in your kitchen can release physical tension and boost mood.
Get outside. Fresh air and natural light can have a calming, restorative effect on your nervous system.
You don’t need a long workout or a perfect routine — even a few mindful moments can help your body reset.
Calm the Mind: Creating Space for Peace
Our thoughts can often amplify stress. When your mind feels crowded with worries or “what ifs,” give yourself permission to slow down.
Some ways to ease mental tension include:
Journaling. Writing your thoughts on paper can help you process emotions and make sense of what feels overwhelming.
Mindful breathing or meditation. Focusing on your breath, even for a few minutes, can quiet racing thoughts and bring you back to the present moment.
Digital boundaries. Take small breaks from news and social media to give your mind a chance to rest.
Find calm in the stillness.
Online therapy in Vermont and Utah can help you slow down, breathe, and reconnect with yourself.
Connect with Support
Stress can feel isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone.
Reach out to supportive friends or family who can listen without judgment.
Consider talking with a therapist who can provide tools and strategies to manage stress in a healthy way.
Surround yourself with people who help you feel safe, grounded, and understood.
Connection reminds us that we’re not alone in what we’re feeling — and that healing often happens in relationship with others.
Set Boundaries to Protect Your Energy
Boundaries are not about shutting others out — they’re about creating balance and protecting your well-being. It’s okay to say no, take breaks, or ask for help. Setting clear limits around your time, energy, and emotional space can reduce feelings of overwhelm and build resilience.
Taking Small, Intentional Steps
Managing stress doesn’t mean eliminating it entirely. It means learning how to respond to it with care. Small steps practiced consistently — like breathing deeply, writing down your thoughts, or spending time outside — can create lasting change.
If stress is starting to feel unmanageable, therapy can help you find calm, clarity, and support.
Ready to Begin?
At Sugarhouse Therapy, I offer compassionate online therapy for adults and children across Vermont and Utah. Together, we can explore ways to manage stress and create space for healing and peace.
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to learn more about how therapy can support you.