Top Strategies for Introverts Who Need to Relieve Stress

Replenishing energy stores is the best way to manage stress. The stress response causes us to expend large amounts of energy. Burnout happens when we experience a high level of stress over a long period of time. Unfortunately, we do not replenish enough of the depleted energy to compensate for the energy that is burned up through stress.

Personality plays a role in the types of activities that we find enjoyable and energizing. Today I want to talk about being an introvert and the activities that energize and refuel this personality type.

What Exactly is an Introvert?

Marti Olsen Laney, PhD is an expert when it comes to the introvert personality type. She outlined the characteristics of the introvert personality in her book The Introvert Advantage: How Quiet People Can Thrive in an Extrovert World.

A summary of the characteristics follows

Prefer to relax alone or with a few close friends.
Friends are only those with whom there is a deep relationship.
Like to rest after being active outdoors.
Listen a lot, although they talk about subjects that are interesting to them.
Observant, calm and self-contained
Thoughtful about statements or actions
Dislike feeling rushed.

Do you relate to this list of characteristics?

Your personality may be influenced by introvert like traits..

Introverts are not anti-social. They enjoy being around others. They also enjoy social activities. Introverts, however, interact with the world around them differently than those who are extroverted. An introvert tends to be an independent thinker. They are skilled at examining their thoughts and feelings. Introverts will only share those thoughts and feelings with those they consider close friends or family.

Introverts do not like chit chat. Talking just to talk wastes energy. Too many people talking at one time also depletes energy. One on one conversations are enjoyable.

These personality traits have implications for an introvert to get up and moving to release stress. An introvert should participate in activities that can be accomplished alone or in a small group.

Here are a few moving activities that can be done alone or in a small group

Walking – Walking is a wonderful and simple way to increase activity. Just walk out the door and put one step in front of the other. To optimize the experience, choose a natural setting that has greenery, trees, and nature sounds. Track your steps for additional incentives to move.

Running – Run through the neighborhood, on a track or in a park. This is also an activity that can be completed alone, with a partner or in a small group. Runners get a burst of feel-good hormones as well.

Biking – A leisurely bike ride provides the same benefits. I love riding through my favorite bike trails as well as the streets in my neighborhood. Make sure you wear helmet and reflective clothing. Watch out for cars because the drivers are not watching out for you.

Swimming – Check out the pools in your community. Swim clubs, YMCA/YWCAs or private fitness centers with pools may have established hours for lap swimming. Swimming provides an all-around workout. Lap swimming is tranquil and easy on joints.

Yoga – Yoga can be done alone or in a small group. You can find yoga routines on YouTube. Join a yoga studio to participate in a small group. I enjoy Adriene Mishler of Yoga with Adrienne. Her free yoga routines are on YouTube.

At Home Fitness – Find a workout that works for you. Use an app, YouTube or virtual program that fits your personality, schedule, and needs. Keep it short and to the point. Introverts do not like extraneous chatter. Choose HIIT, High Intensity Interval Training for a stress busting routine. HIIT workouts are quick, intense, and highly effective.

This is what I do

I am showing working women how to manage stress and find balance in their own way during “Stress Talk” Live with Marcyline Bailey. This 30 minute program is broadcast every Sunday at 4pm on the M.L Bailey Consultants Facebook page and on YouTube. Join us weekly.

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“Here is to your sustainable, successful and satisfying stress managed life.”
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