On this International Mental Health Day, we're focusing on MANAGING STRESS. Stress can have terrible consequences for your health, so it's best to know when to ease off.

 As long as it's a temporary phenomenon, you shouldn't worry too much. However, chronic stress can have serious consequences. So it's best not to ignore these warning signs: concentration problems, mood swings, chronic fatigue, changes in body weight, reduced or increased appetite, exaggerated emotional reactions, etc.
For our drivers, we have developed a complete STRESS MANAGEMENT TRAINING module, which they can follow on request, when we feel they might need it or during the CODE 95 courses. Safety on the road also requires a clear, relaxed mind and good health!

 Here are 3 TIPS to help you FEEL BETTER:
 

1. BREATHE

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Correct breathing is the antidote to stress :

• To calm down, soothe and relieve tension, sharpening attention and reflexes.
• To leave my parasitic thoughts behind and return to the sensations of the body in the present.
• To improve muscle nutrition, which increases resistance to physical fatigue.
• To promote oxygenation of the nerve cells, making it easier to concentrate and memorise.
• To refocus me in the concrete.

 

2. STRETCHING

 

• Stretching increases levels of serotonin, the hormone that helps to stabilise our moods, reduce stress and make us feel good in general, leading to a reduction in depression and anxiety.
• It's easy to do, and you can find it on the internet, or even better, with a coach!

 

3. ENERGETIC CLEANSING

 

• Sitting down: first ‘activate’ your hands by rubbing them together.
• Massage the ears, massage or tap the scalp, with or without the hands on the ears.
• Massage the face, neck, nape of the neck, arms, legs, feet, massage or pat the chest or press both hands together.
• Prepare to stand by placing both hands on your thighs at knee level, inhaling and exhaling as you ‘root’ your feet into the ground and contract your pelvis.

And don't forget to get moving, listen to your favourite music, talk to kind-hearted people and take time to enjoy nature!

Life is precious, especially yours! Take care of yourself, you are precious!