Stress Excess

Hey readers!

Of course, first I want to apologise for the lack of posts recently. But that also relates straight back to my title "Stress Excess." I had exam block and spent my nights studying until 11pm. It was hard. My head was so full of definitions and memorised essays that I could hardly focus on anything, and I had a bit of writers block if I'm being honest.

However it lead me to realise that the inspiration was right in front of me. And I'm not going to lie, sometimes I don't handle stress too well. Emotional breakdowns, panic attacks, the works.

As a student who has the weight of a thousand high expectations upon her shoulders, here are my top three stress tips. And these tips can apply to anything, whether it be studying or a hard time at work, or dealing with your autsitic sibling who can get a bit more than a handful sometimes.

1. Inspire yourself with MUSIC. One of my favourite songs is Inner Ninja by Olly Murs. If you would like to listen to the song here is the link (Inner Ninja).

Other songs that make me happy and motivated include The Man (Aloe Blacc), Flaws (Bastille) and Oceans (Coasts). Click each of the names to listen.

2. Think about CHRISTMAS. If you know me, you know that Christmas is, according to me, the best thing that graces the earth. Around Christmas time, it's impossible not to be in high spirits. There are decorations, trees, christmas sweaters and the most amzing lights you will ever see. So hop up, get out your lights or tinsel and make your room look like a Christmas Wonderland. Christmas puts a smile on everyones face!

3. Get a HUG. Four facts about hugging are as follows:

• Hugging increases oxytocin in the body which reduces stress and lowers blood pressure.

• Hugging can stimulate the brain to release dopamine, the "feel good" hormone.

• Hugs can cure depression, loneliness, and increase security, trust, safety and self-esteem.

• Hugs are free (:

This is the quickest, most efficient and fastest way to feel better. It is a relief. It makes you feel like everything is going to be okay.

And you know what? Bill makes me feel like life is never going to be okay. Having him as my brother, as a part of my family, is the hardest thing I have ever had to deal with. And those tips, those little snippets of advice, have got me through it. MCH (Music, Christmas, Hug), is the acronym which has repeated itself in my head for the past 14 years. Music. Christmas. Hug.

I know those tips may not work for everyone, but they have certainly always worked for me.

MCH readers!

Love,

E.

P.S. Email me any questions or topics you would like me to write about. My email adress can be found in the "About" section of the blog (: