Coping with Big Transitions in Life

Guys, it's been a while. I've missed you all! Life gets in the way sometimes, you know?

In the past month I have graduated, moved to a new city, got my first apartment, and started my first job. There have been quite a lot of firsts happening for me recently, however, a lot was ending as well. I left college and some of my closest friends. I left a city I loved. Transitions are tough, especially for me because I have never been a fan of change.

When I first learned that I would be moving to NYC, I could not have been happier. The initial shock and excitement made me feel like I was on top of the world, but before I knew it, I was bombarded with stress and anxiety about graduating, moving to a new city and starting work.

I wish I could have said I handled it better at first. I avoided packing at all costs (sorry mom), I shut people out because I was scared and nervous and didn't know how to talk about it. This happens to us sometimes. Things happen or change in our lives and we need to learn how to adapt.

I am happy to say, almost 3 weeks in to my move and I could not be happier. Through this experience I've learned a lot of the do's and don'ts of coping with transitions.

DO:

- Meditate - even if this is for only 5 minutes a day. Use this time to clear your mind of the thoughts that are giving you anxiety and stress.

- Stay busy. When going through transitions, there are a ton of things you could be doing. Don't avoid packing or any other task because it will only cause you more stress.

- TALK IT OUT. Shutting people out and keeping it all in will only result in more stress.

- Eat Real Food! Eating well and fueling your body is key during this time. Eat food that makes you feel good, whatever that may be.

DON'T:

- Push people away (again, sorry mom!) - Everyone around you will be there to help you. Don't push them away because the reality is, they probably know exactly what you're going through.

- Stop doing any type of physical activity. I'm not saying you need to go have an insane workout, but take a walk, do 30 minutes of yoga, ANYTHING that will keep you sane.

For all of my recent college grads, I FEEL FOR YOU. For anyone going through a really big transition in their life, I FEEL FOR YOU. Surround yourself with positive energy during this time, it will only benefit you. Do what you need to do in order to achieve that *mind, body, & soul* happiness.

That's it for now. I promise I'll be back soon

xx Linds

#copingwithstress #graduating #americanuniversity #stress #transitions #mindbodysoul