The same applies when considering stresses in our lives.

We often owe fatigue and overwhelm to the BIG issues we’re dealing with—juggling multiple responsibilities, health issues, dealing with major life changes, financial concerns—but the small things are taking a toll, too!

Micro-stresses are low-level annoyances we encounter on a daily basis. Over time, those tiny but constant micro-stresses accumulate and wear a person down, often without the person even being aware of their presence.

Some examples are:

• Notifications from tech devices

• Constant interruptions (this relates to always being “available” due to cell phones)

• Managing simple activities with declining physical or cognitive abilities

• Reduced social interactions due to loss of loved ones, mobility limitations, or changes in social circles

• Decision fatigue

• Feeling underappreciated or ignored

• Small tech difficulties (Wi-Fi issues, app glitches)

• Concerns about needing care, relying on others, or ability to perform daily tasks

None of these is a big deal on its own, and we often try to ignore, internalize, or push through them; but given enough time, the tiny drops build up and fill a bucket that eventually overflows.

Our bodies begin to suffer under the cumulative effects and are manifested as:

• Mental fog or irritability

• Trouble sleeping or winding down

• Increased anxiety or emotional reactivity

• Feeling overwhelmed by “little things”

• Physical fatigue or headaches

Microstresses chip away at our mental bandwidth and leave us feeling exhausted—even if nothing major has happened.

It’s often difficult to identify micro-stresses because they feel normal; but with so many embedded in modern life, it’s important we learn to discern them. The goal isn’t to eliminate every small stress; but to recognize them and create space for recovery.

Here are some simple steps to enjoy a Stress-Free Summer as you minimize the impact of micro-stresses in your life.

1. Name and Track Them

Start by identifying your common micro-stresses. You might even keep a “stress log” for a few days to see what comes up repeatedly.

2. Simplify Decisions

Cut down on decision fatigue by creating routines or planning ahead. Meal prepping, laying out clothes, or making a daily or weekly routine can reduce one’s mental load.

3. Set Micro-Boundaries

Set limits with your phone, email, or even certain people. For example: no screens after 7PM, or one tech-free hour a day.

4. Create Micro-Recoveries

Just like stress builds up in small doses, relief can too. Try deep breathing, stretching, stepping outside, or taking a 5-minute break in between tasks. These “micro-recoveries” help your nervous system reset.

5. Practice Self-Compassion

It’s easy to feel guilty or “dramatic” for being stressed by small things. These feelings are valid; and acknowledging them with kindness can prevent them from spiraling into burnout.

 Keep in mind this isn’t a one-and-done activity. The stresses in our lives are constantly changing, sometimes quickly and sometimes slowly, just as the landscape on a road trip.We want to build a habit of evaluation as we take time to consider what is and what is not serving us for where we are at in our life journey.

So take a small step forward today by choosing to minimize micro-stresses in your life to enjoy maximum benefits during your Stress-Free Summer.

See you in the studio!

 

 

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