How to Ease Money Stress

Are you sitting there wondering if your job is safe? Or worse yet, have you already been painfully downsized, and now searching for new employment? Take solace in the fact that you are not alone. People are feeling out of control and feeling the effects of “money stress”.

The key is that you don’t allow the stress to control you. I came across the following five signs that money, as it relates to your budget, is causing way too much anxiety. Do any of these signs sound like you? If so, there are simple steps to take to overcome that uncomfortable feeling and take control.

Sign #1: You can’t sleep. A disrupted sleep pattern is one of the most common signs that you’re too worried, whether sleeping too much or too little. You may have trouble falling asleep or wake up during the night and can’t fall back to sleep. Or maybe you plain don’t want to get up in the morning.

Your bedroom should be your relaxing haven for sleep. Watching news might seem like the perfect way to end your day, however, it adds to your stress and does not promote relaxation. Follow a routine that includes a shower or candlelit bath time, reading, soft music, and maybe some romantic time with your spouse. With a relaxing routine, your mind and body are readied for sleep. Hmm..I’m getting sleepy already!

Sign #2: You’re drinking more than usual. Maybe you are asking “What would be more relaxing than a few drinks”? Although you may fall asleep quickly after consuming alcohol, you’ll be more likely to wake during the night, which will disrupt your REM cycle. You will not get the benefits of that deep sleep that your body needs.

Exercise is a better option. Through exercise, endorphins are released in your body, reducing pain and inducing euphoria. That leads to a sense of well being.

Check tomorrow’s blog for Signs 3-5.

In the meantime, think happy thoughts and focus on the positive. We are all in this together!

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