Millar Montgomery has some stress management advice for the modern dad.
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Hello Sir,
One thing that is guaranteed when we have kids is that we will become STRESSED: Deadlines to meet, housework needs to be done, kids are screaming while you’re on the phone.
It’s inevitable….So lets Bo$$ it.
I know that whenever I’m frustrated, short tempered or worried my kids will tend to be more emotionally unsettled, feeding off my energy.
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I know that whenever I’m frustrated, short tempered or worried my kids will tend to be more emotionally unsettled, feeding off my energy.
Just as the roots of a tree are upheaved, the fruits of its branches will fall.
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Stress can manifest in many ways….
- Small, shallow breathing
- Closed fists
- Clenched jaw
- Eye twitching
- Short temper
And the list goes on…
These are a result of a strain on our biological, spiritual and psychological self.
Biologically speaking as we become more and more stressed over longer periods of time there is a gradual increase in your stress hormones (cortisol and adrenaline), which, over time can have negative effects on your health.
Reducing these stress hormones won’t happen overnight, but you can make good progress fairly quickly with regular ‘introspective’ or ‘working in’ exercises (eg meditation, yoga, stretching, qi gong, tai chi).
These will also help with calming your spiritual self so that your tolerance for becoming stressed it much lower.
We should be aware of our stress triggers. You know those ‘pet peeves’ that really get us fired up.
Like so many things in life that we want to improve on, we must first shine the light of awareness on it before we can begin.
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Next time you feel like you are getting stressed, just stop and become aware of your body.
Then ask yourself these questions:
- What am I feeling right now?
- Why am I feeling this way?
- Are these feelings founded?
Interrupting the pattern of stress is crucial to making improvements in dealing with it.
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Interrupting the pattern of stress is crucial to making improvements in dealing with it.
Personally, I like rhythmical movement meditations, which will help break-up neurotic tension in your body while ‘letting it all out’. Yes, it can look stupid but your kids will love seeing you do it and will probably join in.
Previously published by thebossdadmovement
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Millar is a 26-year-old father of three who also works as a paramedic. Having kids at a young age (19) he understands what it is like trying to be a provider, carer and good father while still growing and learning yourself. Young fathers can succumb to pressures that are unique and Millar is sharing his experiences and knowledge. His website has content on parenting & relationships, self-development, and health and fitness. You can find Millar at www.thebossdadmovement.com or on Facebook.
Photo by Allan Rotgers