It's a Small World After All
Nov 18, 2009 by Bill Rawls, M.D.
A major strategy for stress relief is to "create your own island" by making your world smaller and simpler. So much of what comes through the news media is sensationalized and does not have a direct impact on your life. Filter your news intake if it tends to cause you anxiety.
Consider taking periodic vacations from news media. You will be surprised at how little you will miss! If you want to know more about the world, read a travel novel or National Geographic for a less sensational approach. Reading about history is reassuring; you will note that humans have not changed very much in all of recorded time and the world is probably no worse off than it has ever been.
Making your world smaller extends to your relationships with other people. To some extent, you can choose who you allow on your island. Look for meaningful relationships that pick you up instead of dragging you down.
Another part of creating your own island is having a positive outlook on life. Try to see the good in other people and overlook the bad. Remember that you are only human and others around you are the same. Tolerance is, indeed, one of the most important virtues we can achieve as human beings. Smile more often, even if you don’t feel like it. Also remember that every day is not going to be a "great" day, but tomorrow could be the best yet. It is amazing how quickly life can turn around with the right outlook.
For more stress relief tips and nutraceuticals for stress management , please log in to your Vital Plan dashboard and view the Anxiety and Stress Health brief (under Problem Solving).
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Previous Comments
Margie Smith- Nov 18, 2009
Great tips, Dr. Rawls! You are right, sometimes the news can just be overwhelming. Another suggestion-- turn your cell phone, radio, TV, etc. off for a few hours from time to time when live feels crazy. Better yet, take the kids to grandma and go on vacation to a deserted island :) A truly EXCELLENT strategy for relaxation, haha.
Dr. Bill Rawls- Nov 18, 2009
Thanks for your suggestion, Margie! Cell phones can be so addicting, you are right that "disregarding" them for a few hours occasionally is healthy. Vacations on deserted islands are always nice! In fact that is my favorite kind of vacation. However, it is always possible to discover mini getaways wherever you are, by learning to savor the moment that you are in. Sometimes easier said than done with screaming kids, booked office schedules, heavy traffic, etc. but its amazing how much basic meditation practices can help! Best wishes, Dr. Rawls
JP- Nov 19, 2009
Bill, I agree 100%. One of the best pieces of advice I've ever received is to take a "health break" before you require a "sick day". Don't wait to reach the breaking point before allowing yourself to take a step back and simply decompress. Prevention is the key, IMO. Be well! JP
Dr. Bill Rawls- Nov 20, 2009
Thanks so much for your comment, JP. Remembering to take "health breaks" is especially important during the busy holiday season! Take care, Dr. Rawls
Lark- Nov 28, 2009
I absolutely with the making our world "smaller" concept. I use this frequently when I feel overwhelmed. I make a list of the five things I believe I should get done in a day and prioritize them. I make an agreement with myself that if I do all five that is wonderful but if I only accomplish the 1st priority item I am a success also. I teach this concept to girls I mentor and they love it. On truly bad days, of which there are some, I remind myself that all I have to do is get to midnight and then I have a brand new fresh day to begin again. Thanks for your commitment, Dr. Rawls!
Dr. Bill Rawls- Nov 29, 2009
Hi Lark! Thanks so much for reading my blog and sharing your thoughts on success! Oftentimes we forget what is truly important because we become so overwhelmed. Short "to do" lists are an effective way to keep on track without creating extra stress.
