Last week, I realized I hadn’t taken my blood pressure for months. I keep a battery-operated cuff in the TV room where I’m apt to see and use it. After viewing the 5:00 news, I was stunned to measure my blood pressure and find it elevated. I did the same procedure three days in a row and experienced the same disappointing result. I’ve heard heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. Yikes!
The fourth afternoon, instead of news, I watched the 1944 movie Wuthering Heights, based on Emily Bronte’s novel, which I’d taped earlier. This bleak old black-and-white film is awash with intrigue, tension, and mystery. But when I took my blood pressure it was nice and low. Not a double-blind study, but it struck me that watching news causes anxiety. But I want to be informed, don’t I?
I love watching movies that are older than I am.
The last topic I want to ruminate over is the upcoming election. I wonder if I’ll have to give up watching the news until the three-ring-circus is over.
For years, I’ve heard stress can worsen or increase illness-just about any ailment. But how can I avoid the culprit? Knowing stress is bad for my health, I’m determined to cultivate habits to lessen it. If smoking cigarettes help you relax and de-stress, you may consider ordering Canadian Full Cigarettes online.
When I asked a friend how she dealt with stress she said, “I spend time with my dogs. Cats work too.” But after many years of pet ownership, we don’t have a pooch, so I turned my head to massages as I know this can relax the body a lot and you can get great thai massages from opulencethaispa.co.uk.
Of course, we all deal with stress in different ways. An old colleague of mine now lives in the UK and her stress levels can really get out of control if she doesn’t keep them in check. Since using CBD oil however, her anxiety and depression have been more manageable. She told me she uses this site (buy CBD oil UK) to purchase tinctures of CBD.
Additionally, if you are looking for even more alternative methods to relieve your stress, you might also want to consider giving cannabis products a try. Nowadays, cannabis can be enjoyed using a vaping device. Accordingly, you can click here to learn more about some of the different marijuana-infused vaping products available. Essentially though, cannabis has been shown to have mood-boosting effects and a lot of people use it to help them to unwind after a stressful day. Tempted to give it a go for yourself? Just remember to do your research first to make sure cannabis is legal where you are.
Ultimately, tackling stress is all about finding what works for you, so I’ve been thinking about getting a furry companion.
It’s been scientifically proven that pet-ownership is good for your heart!
I recall as a girl coming home from school and sipping tea with my sister while my mother served us cinnamon toast. Reliving this scene relaxes me. However, several friends didn’t have close relationships with their mothers or siblings, so tea time would not be a stress friendly scenario. Is it for you? Some people struggle with eating disorders which makes communal tea time even more difficult. By smoking cannabis through girly water pipes, sufferers of this kind of disorder might find it easier to stomach food.
How about a chat on the phone or going out to lunch? A man once described a person as an “energy vampire,” which got me thinking: there are some people I enjoy, but who deplete my energy. When I get off the phone after a lengthy conversation, I’m exhausted.
Do you think Old Order Amish driving buggies get stressed in traffic jams?
Has your teenage son or daughter ever told you to “chill out”? An annoying term, no? I was surprised to learn that cold weather can spike blood pressure. So can sassy teenagers.
When contemplating ways to de-stress, why do I long for buttered popcorn? Are there certain foods that seem to calm your mood? Or maybe the act of cooking is soothing, as it is for many. I suppose each person will find different things calming. What works for one person, might not work for others. For example, I heard a few people mentioning that CBD dips could be beneficial to help people relax and reduce stress, however, I’m not sure if that would work for me. Of course, if I ever wanted to try it out, I could just look at some of the options from Flora CBD. Maybe I will try CBD out one day, I know a lot of people that use it, so it must be beneficial. De-stressing is all about doing what makes you feel the most relaxed. It’s a personal thing, so make sure whatever you’re doing is benefitting you.
Amish-made Tea Towel and Potholder, from Lancaster County, PA.
Do you have remedies for lessening unavoidable stress? Please share a tip with me and enter to win this Amish-made Tea Towel and Potholder, from Lancaster County, PA, plus a signed book from The Legacy of Lancaster Trilogy: either Leaving Lancaster, it’s sequel Pennsylvania Patchwork, or Forever Amish! Winner has three days to respond. USA and Canada.
I Love to drink French Vanilla Cappucino and sit on the porch in the morning watching and listening to birds and squirrels or whatever may come my way! Love listening to nature it is so beautiful. Just gives me so much enthusiasm and energy !!
Kate,
Have a nice cup of peppermint tea, look out to your beautiful scenery. Review other Amish books. Smile.
Great ideas, Regina! Thanks for writing. I’ve heard the act of smiling actually makes a person feel happier. Next time I’m stressed out give it a try. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
A delightful way to start your day, Teresa! Once more, you make me want a porch … One reason I walk so much is to hear those birds and see nature. Thanks for writing your comment and entering the giveaway. Your French Vanilla Cappuccino sounds delish!
Kate
I get a good book cup of tea and go to my own little world. I also go for walks out in the country where I live. So peaceful. Right now beginning to see signs of spring. Things are getting green some buds on the tress and my pussy willows are opening. Walking with God and meditating on the good things, Have a good week.
Blessings
Diana
All your ideas sound marvelous, Diana! How wonderful to be able to walk in the peaceful country. I can almost catch the aroma of fresh air and see the leaves unfurling. Hope you have a good week too!
Kate
I also suffer from high blood pressure and very rarely check mine at home. But when I go to the doctor it is usually pretty good. So when I get stressed out I like to listen to some of my favorite music or else go to the gym to exercise. It usually helps me.
Here’s a thought, Rhonda, take your blood pressure cuff to the doctor’s office with you next time you go and see if it is accurate. Most people’s blood pressure goes up when being checked by a nurse, what is known as white coat syndrome. Listening to your favorite music or exercising at the gym sound terrific for your heart and mind. Thanks for visiting my blog and entering the giveaway!
Kate
i would love to win this
Thanks for entering the giveaway, Wanda!
Kate
A relaxing walk always helps; Enjoying God’s creation is always refreshing and relaxing.
I can relate, Marcella! Even walking in the rain is better than being cooped up in the house. I come home refreshed and relaxed. Thanks for leaving your comment and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I enjoy walking in the quiet of the morning listening to nature. Another great way to de-stress is quote scriptures or thank God for all the blessings we have that we often take for granted–like being able to see, hear, walk, talk, etc. There are others that would glad to be able to do one or all of these. God Bless. Thank you for the great giveaways you have your blog posts, Kate.
You are so right, Marilyn! I love my walking partner, but when I’m alone I can spend time with God and be grateful. Sometimes He gives me a my best writing ideas when I’m out walking. Thanks for your encouraging comment. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I also have high blood pressure but my doctor has it under control. What I like to do to release stress is get a glass of iced tea, a good Amish novel & sit on my patio in a rocker & read. I also love the do-wop music so I play that & dance or I enjoy walks.
Why is sitting in a rocking chair so comforting, Susan? Not to mention the Amish novel and iced tea. On the flip side, you love do-wap music, dancing and walking. A versatile woman indeed! Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
To get stress relief I love to sit with a nice cup of hot tea and a good book. That easy ♡
A cup of hot tea is always nice and so is a good book, Sharon! Both are stress relievers. Thanks for leaving your message and entering the giveaway!
Kate
In nice weather, to de-stress I love to sit on my back porch and watch my cats play, the trees rustle in the wind and admire the corn growing. If the weather is bad, I curl up on my bed with a good Amish book, or Karen Kingsbury book and lose myself in the story.
I would love to have your back porch, and view of trees and corn growing, Andrea! A soothing scene. Sounds as if you’re covered in bad weather too. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have started using essential oils in a diffuser. Really helping with headaches and moods..
Sounds interesting, Martha! I didn’t realize they could be used to relieve headaches and elevate moods. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Bible verses …..comfort. ..peace…acceptance…love……find joy in all things ♡
Philippians 4:13….I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strentgh …. (paraphrase)
Your paraphrase says it well, Pam! In the Bible we can find the answers to all our needs. Thanks for leaving your note and entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
I distress in so many ways! Curling up with a nice hot mug of tea and a good book is a favorite way, especially in colder weather! Cooking is a great way to unwind for me too. Adult coloring books is a new tool I have found to be very relaxing and taking a nice long walk with one of my dogs is always looked forward to as Spring approaches!
I admire your ingenious ways to de-stress, Tracie! I am intrigued by adult coloring books and will have to search one out and give it a try. Good for you for taking long walks with one of your dogs for health and pleasure. Thanks for entering the giveaway and best of luck!
Kate
I take a deep breath, say a prayer and move on.
Excellent routine, Kathy! I imagine you are not stressed out very often or for very long. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I would loved to win
Thanks for entering the giveaway, Jennifer!
Kate
My best tip to de stress is a nap. That helps me a lot. Hot tea, reading, watching tv, adult coloring books. If I am at work though, I am just stuck being stressed.
Too bad your boss won’t give you a nap time mid-afternoon, Karen! Thanks for writing and sharing your other tips. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have two methods that really work for me. I get a glass of wine , fill up the tub and light candles , have a relaxing soak, also sometimes have a book book to read. Another is I go for a relaxing horse ride and just let the ride and nature take me away.
Sounds as though you have found your perfect ways to relax, Lorrie! I’d love to go on that horseback ride and enjoy the wondrous beauty of nature. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Kate, I have controlled high blood pressure and diabetes, so stress is my enemy! The doctor has decided that I need to be on Vibryd for stress because I internalize which inflames my psoriasis. I love to relax with a cup of flavored coffee or a nice hot cup of tea and read my books!!! Going to bed early with a book is my best stress reliever. Hope you have a Blessed Day. I enjoy all you comments and entries on Keeping Up with the Amish FB page – please continue
I also love to go to bed early and read something tranquil, Connie! Nothing scary or gruesome before bedtime or I find myself dreaming about the situation all night. Thank you so much for your kind encouragement. I really appreciate it. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I make a pot of coffee and put in a Blake Shelton CD and just breathe 🙂
Good choices, Dell! I just went on YouTube to listen to Blake Shelton. Very nice. Will have to wait until morning for coffee … Breathing is a necessity I sometimes forget to do. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I have high blood pressure. I gave up watching the news quite some time ago. When I am feeling stressed out I spend time with my dogs, read an Amish novel or do something creative in my craft room.
Sounds as though you’re taking your high blood pressure seriously, Carolyn! I wonder if your doctor suggested giving up the news or if it was your good idea. Definitely an excellent idea to spend time with your dogs, reading Amish novels, and getting creative in your craft room. I’d love to see what projects you’re working on. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
I just like to sit and not do anything and breathe and try to think pleasant thoughts like the many blessings I have in my life.
Sitting, breathing, and doing nothing can be a challenge, Candace! As can thinking pleasant thoughts, since the mind wanders … Sounds as if you’ve mastered concentrating on the blessings in your life. Excellent! Thanks for entering the giveaway. Good luck!
Kate
My blood pressure has been very high. My Dr. wants me to take it daily and increased my medicine. I try to relax by reading especially books about the Amish. I also like to crochet, I am making a prayer shawl. I joined a group that makes them for people in hospitals, for sick or recouperating patients at home.
Reading books about the Amish definitely relaxes me, Janet! I’ve heard that crocheting is soothing, especially since you’re part of a group that is making prayer shawls for people recovering from illness. Very impressive and also fun to be with people who have like minds. Thanks for writing. I hope your blood pressure eases back down to normal, but you keep reading and crocheting. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Best stress reliever is a pedicure!
Is that why my friends love them so much, Tina? Maybe someday I’ll be wearing sandals again … Thanks for your fun tip, which sounds quite clever since it works for you. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Because of unavoidable circumstances, I am now cqring for my 2 year old granddaughter full-time. She is my first (and provably only grandchild) and she is a joy BUT I am 65 and I do uundergo stress. Getting outside and the enjoying God’s beautiful creation is my favorite way to deal with stress. A walk; digging in the dirt; pulling weeds; mowing my lawn; working in my vegetable and flower gardens. These may seem like work to most but all of these help me emotionally. And, most of all, they help me physically to keep up with my granddaughter. Finally, but most important of all, I talk to my Heavenly Father, and this takes place through all of the activities I have mentioned.
Thanks for letting me share!
Connie
cps1950(at)gmail (dot)com
Trying to keep up with a two-year-old toddler would be a challenge, Connie! But fun. You could get your exercise right there. I can empathize in your longing to get outside to enjoy God’s creations and try to walk every day. People who don’t enjoy gardening miss out on the strength of being connected to the earth and having time to speak to the Lord. Thanks for your insightful comment and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
I make one of my favorite hot drinks, herbal tea, coffee with international flavored coffee in it or peppermint hot chocolate. While drinking it I close my eyes and go to my favorite place, my grandfather’s farm as it was when I was a kid and just spend some time there.
How wonderful that you have a favorite place, your grandfather’s farm, to visit when your eyes are closed, Jenny! I’ve heard that retreating in your mind to a most relaxing location is enormously helpful. I keep a framed photo of my grandma’s farmhouse at eye level in the hall just outside our kitchen. Plus, your hot drinks sound awfully good. Thanks for your lovely comment and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
A good stress reliever is to walk on the beach at the ocean. I also like to have an iced coffee while reading a good Amish fiction with my cat on my lap. Thanks for a chance to win and have a blessed day!
I can think of few more relaxing places than the beach, Debbie! I love the smell of saltwater and the feel of the sand under my feet. Your iced coffee while reading sounds mighty relaxing too. Thanks for leaving your lovely comment and entering the giveaway! Now, I have a hankering to walk on the beach …
Kate
I tackle stress by reflexology. What is reflexology? The science of the foot. It has helped me very much with anxiety, stress, and life! I had, of all people, an elderly nun recommend it in 1996. Been doing it off and on over the years. Learn more at http://www.reflexology-usa.net/facts.htm and I hope this was okay to share: it works for me. The catch is finding someone certified and knows what he/she is doing!
Thank you!
Submitting this for my wife.
Pick up your bible. Palm 23, Isaiah 41: 10-13.
The Word of God will comfort you.
Thanks for submitting these words of wisdom from your wife, Bob! God will comfort all of us if we allow Him to. Step one: buy and open a Bible. Or go online. Your wife chose two perfect passages for a person facing life’s daily challenges or suffering duress. Psalm 23 covers it all. And Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you.” Good luck to her in the giveaway!
Kate
I always have to remind myself that it is all in God’s hands. When I find myself getting stressed, I focus on letting God control things. Meditation and music are also good ways to de-stress.
You have an awesome perspective, Rachel! When I find myself in stress-producing situations or stuck in traffic I should follow your example. Love music. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
what Ido is take my walk sometimes will l,listen to music or just talk with the lord as i walk! keep some cashew by my chair that brings my bp down
A walk can be a life-saver, Wilma! Some days it’s hard to prod myself out the door, but always worth it. Glad you can keep your bp down. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Take a deep breath relax and read an Amish book
Ah, that sounds delightful, Patricia! Thanks for leaving your thoughts and entering the giveaway!
Kate
A warm cup of tea and a good book usually do the trick. Sometimes I sew. I rarely watch TV anymore.
A cup of tea and a good book are hard to beat, Debbie! And good for you for skipping TV in favor of sewing, creative and useful. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Hi Kate! I know how you feel! I have been unable to find work in over 6 months and it is really stressing me out & getting me depressed…so I have no perfect answer for you, but one thing that does help me feel better is when I pray. Walking also helps me too, as well as cuddling with my soon-to-be husband. Hope this helps & your stress goes down!
So sorry no job yet, Mallory! Someone is missing out on a fantastic employee. Glad you pray, which is fun when walking, and cuddle with your sweetie to lessen your stress. Thanks for writing and keeping me updated. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
A nice long bubble bath and a good book!
A nice long bubble bath and a good book sound divine, Hahhah! Not sure I’d get much writing done … but a girl does need relaxation time. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Stress? In today’s world, I think it’s a given. Like you, the NEWS drives me nuts, I can no longer watch it. It’s not teenagers who drive me crazy saying “chill out”…it’s when another grown up says it…it’s like they don’t take you serious. So what better way to distress than leave the house, leave town, just leave it all behind. Where do I go? Into the pages of a book, to walk in the sand or look out over a valley and sometimes jump right into a mystery and follow all it’s curving paths into danger and always into my Bible that lights my path. yep, to walk away from it all, you don’t even have to leave home, just turn off the TV and open a book. Kate, you take walks, and it’s warming up. Take a book and sit under one of those trees!!!! READ.
A grown up said “Chill out,” to you, Virginia? That makes the person seem rather immature. Ear plugs are in order. I love your description of reading. It’s been pouring all afternoon, so no outside reading for me, Now, at bedtime; that’s a different story. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
My steps of de-stressing are
1. pray
2. chocolate
3. at least 5 minutes of “be still”
4. reading Amish fiction book(s)
5. sleep
and repeat
Lovely, Tina! It reads like a poem or a recipe for relaxation. One that needs repeating for sure. Thanks for writing and good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Give it to God in prayer! Then go and buy a new hat!!!!!!!
Be sure to take a pic for us!! Walk around in town in your new hat and shop at your favorite stores!
I read, drive or take a bath when I am stresses.
Blessings!
Should I pray about that new hat first, Toni? I have quite a collection already and don’t want to find myself on a show about hat hoarders. LOL. I’m glad you’ve found such effective de-stressors. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
I have several things that I like to do to “de-stress”.
I will read books. I will play the piano/organ. My favorite: I love to cross stitch. Cross stitching is very calming to me.
How lovely that you can play the piano or organ for pleasure, Elaine. I’d love to see your cross stitching, something you can take with you to work on if you’re a passenger in a car or sitting in waiting-room, or do instead of watching the news. Thank you for your tips and for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Sorry about your coffee maker Kate….I never have liked the taste of coffee. Take a deep breath & ask God to calm you.
Blessings,
Lorraine
Be glad you don’t like the taste of coffee, an addictive drink I enjoy in moderation. Because of your comment on taking deep breaths, I just looked up several articles about the importance of breathing deeply. I often ask God to protect me while I drive on the highway. Thanks for your de-stressing ideas. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Sitting and looking outside, watching our flowers popping up as though reaching for the sun & hearing the Spring chatter of birds & squirrel’s and feeling very blessed at how nature is coming to visit once again~
You have written a lovely description, Bobbe! I am sitting by a window right now and enjoying the almost-springtime scene, even if it does include rain. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
The best way for me to de-stress is to take a long walk & when I return,a hot bath with a glass of wine.
Long walks are a fabulous idea, Barb! I’m glad you found de-stressors. Thanks for sending your comment and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Journaling Bible verses really helps me. Also reading a good book, or singing, even if it is just with the radio.
I’d love to hear how you journal Bible verses, Debbie! Reading and singing are two of my favorites also. I’ve heard singing is an aerobic activity; it’s good for your mind and body, plus elevates your mood. Thanks for entering the giveaway!
Kate
Kate, many have mentioned a hot beverage, bubble bath, and various bible verses. I suggest that, although these options may help, you would do well to simply take a deep breath.
We tend to forget about breathing, and engage in shallow breathing most of the time, when stressed.
Simple deep breathing, with your eyes closed, can help reduce tension. You can also envision yourself on a cloud, floating above the world. It can help put perspective on the situation.
If that doesn’t work, use Robin William’s advice; “F**k it!” You can’t solve all the world’s problems, so choose your battles wisely.
So true about choosing your battles, A.T. I think I’m guilty of shallow breathing sometimes until I remind myself. Just Googled a couple articles on deep breathing and its importance. I think that’s why I find strenuous walking invigorating. My knee says no more running … Thanks for writing your engaging comment. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
Prayer and meditation are good for me. Right now I am really stressed for several reasons affecting my husband’s health as my father’s. Both of these have caused great concern lately and the prayers on their behalf and mine have made a difference.
Sorry to hear both your husband and your father are suffering from health ailments, Sonja! I have seen amazing prayer answered and the person praying is also blessed. Sometimes the answer to prayer seems like a miracle … because it is! Other times, I must be satisfied with God’s decisions and timing. Thanks for writing. My best to you.
Kate
I enjoy tea and a good book. If the weather is nice, I go for a walk on our farm.
Tea and a good book seem to go hand-in-hand, Celia. You have a farm? Walking on it would be delightful and a remedy to anxiety and stress. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
1. Reading or writing out scripture
2. Reading a book while enjoying coffee, tea or a mug of warm milk
3. A nap
4. If it’s warm enough, a walk around the house to look and plan my flower gardens
5 . A pedicure or bubble bath
Just making the list was relaxing! You have the best giveaways. Thanks for the opportunity to win!
Just reading the list was relaxing, Linda! You have an excellent plan for de-stressing, all fun. Thanks for sharing your tips. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
i WOULD SAY GET A GOOD BOOK WITH A GLASS OF SWEET TEA AND RELAX!!! THAT’S WHAT I DO! OR TAKE A SLOW WALK!! ALSO START READING THE BOOK OF PSALMS THAT ALWAYS WORKS FOR ME!!!
Thanks for sharing your tips for de-stressing and relaxing during times of anxiety, Jean! You’ve inspired me to open the Bible to the Book of Psalms to read tonight at bedtime. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
If you have faith in God you don’t have stress or anxiety. You never worry and you live longer and are much happier. This I know for a fact. each morning I wake up and thank God for bringing me through the night and ask Him to hold my hand through the day and He does. Praise God. Amish books are the only ones I read, except the Bible, and I have read the first 2 of Kates books all I need is the third. Love them all.
I’m glad you enjoyed my first two Amish books, Carolyn! Thanks you. Yes, you must read the third. I’m not sure I agree with you when you say if you have faith you don’t have stress, as I can think of times when Peter (and others) succumbed to anxiety and fear. And Paul was anxious, but stood firm in the end. Knowing these blessed men of God walked through the valley gives me encouragement. I do agree that if you live without worry by relying on God’s love and strength you will be happier. What a wonderful way you wake up each morning! Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Read an Amish book. Always works for me:)
Reading Amish books is a wonderful way to de-stress, Michelle! I find when I read them at bedtime I sleep better. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!
Kate
Good post. Stress is something we all need to tame. The remedy may be different for different people. Some say working on a jigsaw puzzle (my sister) where others get panicky dumping all those pieces out of the box. Others suggest knitting or crocheting (this works well as long as I am working on a mindless project like a scarf or dishcloths). I have a friend who sews – that would not be calming to me at all. So, you need to find your thing.
For me, sitting outside on my porch, listening to the birds sing while taking in the beauty of my garden is restful. Taking a walk. Praying. Sitting quietly while knowing that God is in charge. He sees and knows what I are going through. And, spending time with a friend. I hope that helps.
Thanks for your insightful comment, Jeanne! You are so right when you mention that what may be a calming activity for one person is a stress for another. One size does not fit all, but your list would be comforting to me. Except I have a hard time sitting quietly unless my hands and mind are busy, which could be actively praying while I walk or garden. Good luck in the giveaway!
Kate
If I am really upset I will get in my car go out on a country road and scream as loud as I can., until I feel better or I will beat my bed pillow as hard as I can.
Just a little stressed and need to relax I will sit in the swing on the front porch with a good book and a cup of hot tea. Hope you find something from these comments that will help you,
Love your suggestions, Carlin! I recall the punching-bag we bought for my older son and hung in the basement. Not sure he used it very often, but same idea. I love the feeling of sitting on a swing, especially on the porch with a good book and tea. Something about that swaying movement calms me into a better frame of mind. Thanks for writing and entering the giveaway!!
Kate