Keeping in Touch Newsletter October 2005
De-Stressing the Commute
Based on article by ABMP staff (Associated Bodyworkers & Massage Professionals)
The average American commuter spends an hour a day driving to and from work. During this stressful, stop-and-go time, it's likely that blood pressure increases, adrenaline begins pumping, and muscles constrict and tighten. By the time you get home, you're wiped out and grumpy, and you have less to offer to those you come home to. If this sounds familiar, recognize that you have the power to reduce commuter stress.
Here are a few tips to make your commuter time contribute to -- rather than detract from -- your life. Obviously, use good judgment and don't do something that distracts you from driving safely.
* Employ adjustable back cushions, pillows, wedges, and lumbar supports for a more comfortable commute.
* To successfully sidestep the late-afternoon slump often caused by the stress hormone cortisol, keep some healthy snacks within arms reach. Celery, string cheese, water, and nuts --especially almonds -- are good options for the drive home. Snacks that combine protein with carbohydrate to maintain blood sugar levels are good. Avoid snacks that are messy, that easily spill, or are dangerously hot (such as coffee or tea that might spill. And, okay, I'm going to sound like a mom here -- make sure you use the bathroom before you leave. There's nothing like a full bladder in a traffic jam to raise stress levels.)
* To help keep you focused (but not distracted) borrow books-on-tape/CD from the library. Consider purely entertaining
novels to ease the intensity of your drive.
* Learn a foreign language. Libraries also loan out these types of tapes and CD, too.
* Use your commute as an opportunity for spiritual or emotional growth. When stressing about a traffic jam, remind yourself that it's completely out of your control. Remember, attitude is everything.
* Practice breathing. When stress occurs, breathing becomes shallow and constricted. Taking full, deep breaths gives the body more oxygen, helping to regulate physical and mental function. Exhaling fully releases tension and built up toxins.
All these great ideas aside, considering how much we multi-task during the day, maybe just listening to music you enjoy and using the commute as some mental down-time might be the best thing, as a transition time between the demands of your job and the demands of family at home.
Safe journey!
To read the other article "Abhyanga" in the October newsletter, click here.
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