| Thank you, Martha E. Jackson in Sheffield, MA, for this week's cover image! |
There are few who would disagree: There’s been a lot of stress in 2020!
This year has brought unprecedented challenges, surprising events, and a necessity to evolve or “make do” in ways that most of us could have never imagined. It can feel like there’s something new every day, every hour, grabbing for attention. The thing about stress is that as much as it can feel like there’s no escape from it, you have to find a way to alleviate it or it builds, affecting your health, relationships, and focus.
So, what should the stressed-out do in this crazy, conflicted, and chaotic year? The good news is that the old rules for dealing with stress still apply. Here are a few tips that you can start using today:
Focus on your physical health. It’s much more difficult to handle challenges if you’re not feeling your best. Take precautions against cold, flu, and COVID-19: Get a flu shot, wash your hands, and wear a mask when out in public. Eat a healthy diet full of lots of fruit, vegetables, and whole foods. Exercise as you’re able and make sleep a priority.
Get outside. Studies have shown that even a few minutes outdoors each day can improve mood and lift anxiety. This is all the more important as we get further into fall and the days shorten.
Take a break from social media. Even for just a day! There are multiple studies that link prolonged social media use to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation. Add in a news cycle that just won’t quit, and these negative side effects can really start to take a toll!
Laugh! Instead of scrolling your newsfeed, might we suggest relaxing with your favorite comedy? Laughter has been shown to increase oxygen flow and promote a particular relaxation response in the brain. These effects can help to relieve pain and encourage more restful sleep.
Take a deep breath. While we all breathe, it’s usually shallowly, utilizing only the upper portion of our lungs. Taking deep, purposeful breaths—especially those that go into the belly—can help to immediately focus thoughts and alleviate stress. Try it now.
Move your body. When all else fails, move. Talk a walk, clean, dance, wave your arms like you just don’t care—what you do doesn’t matter. Any physical movement will do to get your mind off what’s bothering you!
Gardening is a great way to move the body, plus it gets you outside and offers lots of benefits to keep you and your family healthy. If you have a garden, you’re likely winding it down from summer. These chores can include cutting back perennials, preparing the soil for spring planting, and creating a row cover to protect young seedlings from harsh weather. Also: Get the jump on spring flowers by planting fall bulbs!
Of course, autumn doesn’t have to be just a season of transition in the garden. Consider planting one of these beautiful fall shrubs!
If you included pumpkin in this year’s vegetable garden, you’re likely seeing the fruit of your labor right about now. We have you covered with a collection of seasonal sweet and savory recipes—from Pumpkin Spice Cookies and Browned Butter Frosted Pumpkin Bars to Southwestern Pumpkin Burgers and Pumpkin Mac and Cheese!
Finally, the biggest sky event of the year is upon us! The Mars Opposition features The Red Planet at its biggest and brightest until 2035. Check it out on Tuesday, October 13.
As sure as the Sun will rise and set each day, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is here for you, now and always.
Your Friends from The Old Farmer’s Almanac |
