Dealing with a family law dispute can be one of the most difficult times in your life and can cause a great deal of unwanted, negative stress. During these times, it may not seem like a lot is in your control but managing your stress can be a way to take control.

 

1. Exercise
Exercise is widely known as one of the best ways to manage and reduce stress because of the many beneficial effects it can have on your body. For instance, it can lower your blood pressure, boost levels of good cholesterol, and improve your quality of sleep. The possibilities for exercise are endless and there is something for everyone: yoga, soccer, hiking – you name it. Another bonus is that exercise doesn’t have to be done alone. You can exercise with your kids, friends, and even meet new people doing it. Overall, it’s just a truly accessible outlet to release any tension building up during a stressful time.

2. Sleep
Sleep is extremely vital to your overall health. Not getting enough of it can lead to increased stress levels and a poor immune system. Try to unwind at least an hour before bed and avoid using your phone while you unwind. Doing things that relax you before going to sleep is essential to getting in the right headspace. For example, you could take a bath or do some light reading. Additionally, it’s much easier to get into a solid sleep routine if you go to bed around the same time every night. It might be difficult the first couple of days, but your body will adjust and thank you for it.

3. Social Support
When dealing with a family law dispute like a divorce or custody battle, social support is especially important to keep in mind. It’s a hard burden to bear alone and social support can help release any built-up tension. Try confiding in someone you trust and sharing your worries with them. You might be surprised at how the act of openly discussing these thoughts can bring relief and ease some of the stress. Friends and family can offer advice or simply be a shoulder to lean on.

4. Hobbies
Life can get so busy sometimes that we forget to do things we enjoy. Making time for hobbies, even just 15 minutes, can be another way to manage stress. Like exercise, the possibilities are endless: there’s knitting, art, doing puzzles, watching movies, etc. Take your pick and try do something that makes you feel good.

5. Positive Self-Talk
As silly as this one may sound, there are scientific studies supporting the benefits of positive affirmations. Listen closely to the way you talk to yourself and try to change any negative thinking to positive thinking. If you’re telling yourself, “I can’t do this.” Try, “I’m doing the best I can.” Even starting your mornings with a few positive affirmations can make subtle differences day by day and help reduce your stress levels.

At the end of the day, the goal is to disrupt the cycle of stress and get to a place where you’re in control. Even just trying one of these tips can help lower your stress. It is worth a shot to see how things can change.

Sources:
Ratini, Melinda. “Stress: Ways to Manage and Reduce It.” WebMD, WebMD, 25 Apr. 2019,
www.webmd.com/balance/guide/tips-to-control-stress#2.

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