This is my first blogpost in two weeks, yes there where many people who have asked me why didn’t you write a post? Good question! I guess I was really busy and I’ve been traveling like crazy (read, also stressed I love those traffic jams) started to study again. I’ve got the feeling that I’ve been living in my car the last few weeks for my job and I’ve done a lot of overtime (don’t worry, coz I absolutely love my work), before I knew it I was in France and I’ve done some crazy, funny things with some creative, innovative & inspirational persons all in preparation to do some genuine crossing through different media’s when the time is right. I’ll keep you updated of my next adventures. One of the things that I’ve really learned these last few weeks is just to enjoy each moment to the fullest even though I was out of my comfort zone often. It’s important not to lose oneself and just to have some ‘Me time’ even though you’re so busy. Me I love to take a relaxing long warm bath, have a facial & read some good books/magazines and also a lovely diner with friends & family does wonders.

Enjoy the lovely view (of France) wherever you are
Often you know what you’re going to do every day, there are many things which have a recurrent repetition often you don’t even realize this. And when you do something different, crazy also called ‘organized chaos or out of the box’ you are directly out of your comfort zone. But not every type of stress or effort has negative consequences for your performance. If that was the fact there wouldn’t be any mountain climbers, depth-sea divers, (fast) car drivers, or in other words people who look for excitement. These people are able to cope with stress in such a good way, that the situation or conditions in which they it doesn’t matter because they still have full control. In our daily lives stress can manifest itself in unwanted physical or psychological tension. At our work, studies etc. stress often arises when we’re busy to get all the things that need to be done on time. When this pressure becomes to high, some people have the feeling that they lose control over the situation. The reason for this is that stress could influence our ability to think clearly. This pressure can be less when you recognize the symptoms and take the right repercussions (read the facts to find out more of the symptoms). There are also many people who care for others and you probably forget to take care of yourself. But the fact is if you’re not healthy and feeling good, you will not be the only one to suffer, but also those in your care will. What you do for work isn’t easy and you probably don’t have much time every day for youself, it’s important and crucial to reduce the stress level whenever possible to have a good health and good state of mind. So do take a deep breath, and please read on. Here come some surprising simple stress busters tips
1. Laugh
Laughing for one minute is the equivalent to 15 minutes on an exercise bike or 10 minutes on a rowing machine. Laughter can reduce stress hormones, boost your immune system and lower your blood pressure. So pop in an old comedian dvd, read your favorite comic strip, turn on Comedy Central, call a friend who makes you laugh or pull out some old photos albums. Go ahead: laugh out loud! Yes, you can do this!
2. Enjoy routine tasks
Instead of rushing through the day on auto pilot, elicit the relaxation response while you’re doing simple household tasks, like folding laundry or washing dishes. They may seem tedious and tiresome, but the repetitive quality of activities like these can actually have a soothing effect by short-circuiting stressful thought patterns. The key is to focus your attention on a particular aspect of what you’re doing, such as putting a crease in your pants as you iron them, which will keep your mind from drifting to more stressful thoughts. Focusing on relaxation with you favorite music on the background while doing chores doesn’t take any longer, but it does take away from stress.
3. Reinvent your vocabulary
Words have a powerful influence over ones mind. Think positive thoughts and use positive words. You don’t need to buy a dictionary and start learning lots of fancy new words. Just ban two simple words from your vocabulary … and add one important one. Never say the words ‘I can’t’ again. Saying things like ‘I can’t do it anymore’ is a defeatist attitude that is an absolute recipe for failure. And from failure comes stress. So don’t say ‘I can’t’ just say ‘I’ll try’. And here’s a word that many caregivers need to add to their vocabulary: ‘No!’ It’s one of the first words that babies learn — and they use it often. But as adults, this word seems to have slipped from our vocabulary. Learn how to say ’No’ because you know your limits and stick with them, whether in your personal or professional life.
4. Talk slower
Whenever you feel overwhelmed by stress, practice speaking more slowly than usual. You’ll find that you think more clearly and react more reasonably to stressful situations. Stressed people tend to speak fast and breathlessly. By slowing down your speech you’ll also appear less anxious and more in control of any situation that comes along your path.
5. Get a haircut
Beautify yourself! Invest in a good haircut, adopt a 5-minute makeup routine or get out of those sweat pants. Looking good makes you feel better. Even if you just do a quick swipe of blush, mascara and lipstick, you’ll feel better. A funky necklace or a great pair of earrings can quickly lift your spirits — even if you’re not leaving the house take care of yourself just for yourself!
6. Stop counting calories
Counting calories every single day can be very tiring, stressful, and makes you even hungrier! Instead, focus on making healthy food choices. Eat a diet rich in fruits, veggies, beans, and whole grains that is high in water content and fiber and you’ll feel full and be less inclined to overeat or eat unhealthy foods. And in turn, this will reduce the stress connected with weight gain and self-blame. Don’t forget to move your ass, take the stairs instead of the evaluator or escalator. Walk outside and take a fresh breath form being inside all day long, it’s good for you and your health.