Notice
Road and parking lot construction in Madison, Wis. may result in travel delays and route changes to UW Health clinic and hospital locations. Please plan accordingly.Read more
Road and parking lot construction in Madison, Wis. may result in travel delays and route changes to UW Health clinic and hospital locations. Please plan accordingly.Read more
Stress is an experience. It produces physical, mental, and emotional symptoms. It happens a lot with changes in our lives, both the ups and the downs. It is a way for our body, mind, and spirit to let us know when we are out of balance.
When you feel stressed, your body may respond with these physical symptoms:
Fast breathing or heartbeat
Dry mouth
Headaches
Backaches
Stomachaches
Teeth grinding
Fatigue
Sweaty palms
Heartburn
Foot tapping
Tight muscles
Other ________________________
You may find yourself overeating or having problems sleeping. It is normal to feel depressed or anxious when stressed. The list below describes other feelings you may have during times of stress.
Lonely
Tired
Bored
Crabby
Impatient
Other ______________________
See a funny movie
Go to a comedy club
Shop until you drop
Listen to music outdoors
Go to the library
Play a game
Work on a jigsaw puzzle
Rollerblade®
Swim or splash in the water
Walk
Run
Bike
Bowl
Ski
Canoe
Start a new hobby or craft
Join a club or group
Sing or whistle a song
Play an instrument
Draw or paint a picture
Write a poem
Journal
Color
Try a new recipe or make an old favorite
Plant flowers
Garden
Take a hot scented bath
Sip a hot drink
Nap
Watch a sunrise or sunset
Lie back and watch the clouds
Call, write a letter, or email a friend.
Find time to catch up with a family member.
You may feel less stress when you finish something. Some people feel better after cleaning out a closet or a drawer. Make a list and pick the top 5 to do.
Blow bubbles, sit quietly and bring your awareness to your breath.
Breathe in for 3 counts, and out for 3 counts.
Meditate by lighting a candle and watching the flame.
Go out and be in nature. Take a walk in the woods. Sit next to a stream and daydream.
Imagine taking your dream vacation.
Take a drive in the country.
Listen to your favorite music or relaxation tape.