Today, Liz discusses the impact of stress on our relationships and what we can do to maintain a calm body when others share their stress with us. First, let's define what we mean by stress. Stress is defined as a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances. In relationships, stress can manifest in various ways such as communication breakdown, lack of intimacy, and increased conflict. According to the Gottman Institute, "Stress and conflict are inevitable in any relationship, but how couples respond to stress and conflict is what makes the difference between a healthy or unhealthy relationship." This means that it's not necessarily the stress itself that causes problems in a relationship, but rather how we handle it. One way to maintain a calm body when others share their stress with us is to practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment. By being mindful, we can avoid getting caught up in our own thoughts and reactions, and instead focus on listening and understanding the other person's perspective. Another tip for maintaining a calm body is to practice self-care. Self-care includes activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This can include things like exercise, meditation, or simply taking a break when you need it. In addition, it's important to set boundaries in relationships. This means being honest with yourself and others about what you can and cannot handle. It's important to remember that you are responsible for your own well-being and it's okay to say no to things that are not good for you. Finally, it's important to remember that communication is key in any relationship. According to the Gottman Institute, "The most successful couples are those who communicate openly and effectively with one another." This means being willing to share your thoughts and feelings, and actively listening to the other person's perspective. In conclusion, stress is a natural part of any relationship, but it's important to remember that how we handle it is what makes the difference. By practicing mindfulness, self-care, setting boundaries, and communicating openly, we can maintain a calm body and build stronger, healthier relationships. Good Risings is a mindset. Join Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and author of “I Want This to Work,” Elizabeth Earnshaw for a dose of how to navigate the most complex relationships at home and work. Presented By: Cavalry Audio Producers: Jason Seagraves & Margot Carmichael Audio Editing: Revision Sound Executive Producers: Elizabeth Earnshaw, Dana Brunetti & Keegan Rosenberger Follow Good Risings on Apple Podcasts to receive new episodes daily! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
