RECOGNISING YOUR STRESS SIGNATURE

Today we're going to share some more information about your stress signature. But first though, introduction to this lake. It's Lake Rotorua. It's a volcanic crater from a quarter of a million years ago. And out in the there there's an island and it's called Mokoia Island and it's a rhyolite dome. These often occur after a big, ryhotic eruption.

 But more than that, it's one of the main tourist centres in New Zealand.

Body rocking is a technique to help you create space from which you can begin to manage. Your stress signature gives an indication of what's happening in your life. It gives you warning signs, gives you understanding of where you might be at. And when you can begin to measure, you've got a better chance to manage. Body rocking is a technique to help you create space. Understanding your stress signature can help you use that space. To notice what is happening, recognize your early warning signs and consider what might help.

We all experience stress, but we don't always experience it in the same way. One person becomes quiet, another becomes irritable.

Sometimes someone else notices tight shoulders and unsettled stomach or thoughts that don't slow down.

Here at Stressless, we call your individual pattern your stress signature. It is shaped by your experiences, your circumstances and the way you react.For example, losing a much loved pet, this can bring deep grief.

Our stress diagram gives you a simple way to reflect on these patterns.

You can use it to look at a day, a week or a longer period of your life.

The rises and falls represent how you experience your stress.

Some pressure passes quickly. Others continue or return when something reminds you of an earlier experience.

The diagram is a guide for reflection, not a medical test, and everybody's pattern looks different.

As you look at it, consider three things. One, what's been happening? Two, how much energy do I have? Three, and how close do I feel to being overwhelmed?

You may notice that a situation you usually manage feels much harder when you are tired,

unwell or dealing with several pressures at once. Those changes can be signals that you need time, support or a different approach.

The aim is to recognise them earlier.

Start with what's happening today. You don't have to visit the most difficult memories.

Just start with today.There is no answer you have to find.

If it helps, give your current stress a number for 0 to 10. This is your own estimate, a way of checking in with yourself and noticing the changes over time.

Then ask, what might help me lower it a little more?

You might take a break, reduce noise, talk with someone you trust,

or just engage gentle rockings.

Your stress signature is a way to become more familiar with yourself.