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system. Put the problem to those you trust, and a better way of managing the task may emerge from your conversations. Evaluate where you can make
time for relaxing. Think about your interests, what you enjoy doing. Choose some types of activities that appeal and consider when you could carve out time for one. Too often, we forge ahead throughout the day with no thought of diversion. A relaxation activity can be done before the day begins, after it ends, or even – and I know this thought is foreign to the industrious milliner – in the midst of work. When considering stress mitigation, it’s important to create a balance of career and personal time.
A few examples to consider:
PHYSICAL SPORTS – swimming, paddleboarding, biking, and even walking can be healthy for us. Physical action releases endorphins (a feel-good hormone), which is a pick-me-up and can have the added benefit of reversing some of the damaging effects millinery can have on our bodies. These activities can be done at odd moments, alone or with friends. The key is to build time for physical movement into your daily routine.
MENTAL SPORTS are also an option. Reading, gaming, knitting, doing jigsaw puzzles, or colouring might bring distraction and relaxation. These activities are mostly done alone with adjustable time frames. They can rest the brain that has been focused on work and deadlines. Reading might include audio books, where you listen and rest your eyes. My sister has found that erecting complicated Lego structures eases her work stress.
MEDITATION can provide solace for our overwrought minds. There are many ways to meditate. Simple breathing exercises on the floor, in a chair, or in bed are common methods that allow you to stop where you are and focus on your body. You can also
bring yoga into your meditation. This can be done alone at home using books, DVDs, or online programmes, or in a group session in person or virtually. Gentle or Yin yoga is restorative yoga and a safe way to get started. The movements are meant to be done slowly, with sustained attention. This avoids injury as our bodies learn new ways to bend and stretch. There are many teachers of various types of yoga. Explore and find one that fits you, your body and your personality.
There are also times when it is important to realise the stress has gone too far, and it’s time to call on an expert. There are many wonderful coaches and mental health care providers who are trained to help folks deal with their stress. Find one that fits you and your needs, recognising that locating the right counsellor can be a process. If one isn’t a comfortable fit, try another. But don’t give up.
And – lest I forget – remember to pamper yourself now and then. Some of you may cringe at the word ‘pamper’. If so, then think of it as ‘indulging’, or ‘self-care’. Give yourself a special treat, which can be anything from a spa day to decadent chocolate, or even just some encouraging words said to yourself aloud. Be kind to yourself. You are the head of your millinery career and deserve relaxing pleasurable moments. We all have demands on our
time. Let’s think about ways to bring relaxation into your busy life. There is no magic in finding the time to devote to this purpose. The important part is to learn what will help you in gaining peace and calm amidst the pressure of the day-to- day, and how to hit the off button when work is done.
To learn more about the benefits of relaxation, go to
www.mayoclinic.org/ healthy-lifestyle/stress- management/in-depth/ relaxation-technique/art- 20045368?p=1
Remember to pamper yourself
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