Stress Reducers for Working Moms-to-Be

Stress busters

A word to the wise: Drugs and alcohol are temporary anxiety relievers they will not permanently remove the sources of stress. That doesn't take into consideration what these substances may do to you and your baby. Never drink alcohol or take medication without a doctor's consent or prescription.

Fast-Acting Stress Busters

• Thought Stoppers—If you're worried about the meeting tomorrow or how you'll be able to pay for future day care, slowly pass the word "stop" through your mind. Replay the letters S-T-O-P over and over. Or count backward from five to zero. Imagine each letter or number in vivid color.
• Worry Time—When you start to stress about something, set it aside in your mind (or write it down) and then go back to your work. Set aside a few minutes every day to deal with your worries in a more productive way.
• Aromatherapy—Use highly concentrated oils from plants and herbs to relax, recharge, and increase your sense of well being. They are also good for dealing with environmental stress caused by loud noises and bright lights; physical stress from repetitive-strain syndrome, muscular fatigue, and backaches; mental stress created by financial and job concerns; and chemical stress caused by consuming too much junk food and coffee, or breathing polluted air in your office or factory. You can purchase essential oils in health, beauty, herb, and natural-food stores. Use these oils in your place of employment simply by placing a few drops of oil on your wrist or earlobe, in small humidifiers, light bulbs, spray atomizer, room diffusers, or in water bowls.

Note: If you share space, the aroma sensitivity of your coworkers should be taken into consideration. Although these fragrant oils don't have FDA approval as medication, aromatherapy proponents say that they will aid various health concerns. While most essential oils are nontoxic, to stay on the safe side, check with your doctor or the American Aromatherapy Association first.

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