Happy April

Hello, Smiling Faces!Happy April! This is surely not an “April Fools’” as we are in the month of April. The temperatures are a bit chilly here in Memphis on today, but expected to be warmer as the week progress.Easter is celebrated in April, recognized for Resurrection Sunday, as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we approach Easter, Good Friday is observed to commemorate the crucification of Jesus Christ.  Did you know that it is also Stress Awareness Month? Stress affects us mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally. Stress can occur at any time. It affects our health, relationships, lack of sleep, health dangers, including anxiety. Busy careers, family challenges, toxic relationships and unforeseen circumstances can play a major role.If you feel your stress level rising, try listening to your body. Maybe you need to take a step back from what may be causing you stress. Is it a work project, stressful relationship, death of a loved one, or a financial situation? Take a break. Breathe. Meditate. Notice the triggers. Giving yourself a mental break in all of your stressful situations can have powerful effects. Take a short vacation. Exercise and journaling can help ease the tension. Laughter is the best medicine for the soul. Spending time with friends and family is a healthy way to relieve stress. Kickboxing is a form of exercise I partake in five days a week. It’s truly uplifting and encouraging. I often incorporate running outside when the weather is beautiful, making sure my allergy pill is close by. Memphis weather is something else!These days it’s hard not to get overwhelmed once in awhile. Turning on the news itself can be overwhelming and depressing. Don’t neglect what’s important. Sometimes, you may have to put some things on hold for a short time to feed your soul.How do you manage stress? I would love to hear from you.Always SMILE...Sherill