Evacuation shelters are a stressful place to be. Know what to do to minimize the stress for you and your family.
Experts have a few tips if you must go to a shelter: Be aware it is not going to be comfortable. It can be very difficult for people. So you need to be prepared to make your stay as stress free as possible.
Make sure you have a hurricane survival kit packed with all the important items you will need. Also have a special kit for the kids with toys that are only used for hurricane season. They will need items to occupy their time.
Remember that you will need to create a wall of survival around you. The conditions will often be noisy, smelly, and tense. So bring reading materials, ear plugs, battery operated radios and tvs, pillows, blankets, toilet paper, and some favorite munchies.
Try to meditate and practice the stress relieving techniques listed next. If you feel the need to talk to some one, remember that most shelters have a mental health counselor on hand. But most of all remember that this is only a temporary situation. Keep focused on the big picture: surviving the storm!
STRESS BUSTING TECHNIQUES:
We know stress is bad for us. But it happens. So when we feel that agitation coming on we need to do something.
Be on top of stress, not underneath it, or else it will smother you! Being proactive is a smart way to reduce stress. Hurricane planning is critical. Keep checking www.stormtips.com for more ideas. And remember to ask your local fire department, Red Cross or the American Health Association to visit your condo or home owners' association to give you classes.
So you have got your plan down pat, all your supplies in stock and your evacuation routes determined, but you still feel angst, we have some tips.
Talking about it is one of the best things to do. Whether it's with friends or a counselor, get those emotions out there. Also consider keeping a journal. Writing your feelings down is a great way to let them free and come to terms with them.
Physical exercise is vital. Exercise is physical therapy for the brain. Take a walk, but not on a treadmill, that's boring, get out with nature. Realize that hurricanes are just one small part of nature, there are lots of wondrous elements. Get connected.
Yoga and weight lifting are great stress reducers. Lifting weight is a real good cure for stress, because stress is energy that doesn't know where to go.
Count or have a mantra. When you find yourself in an anxious state, start counting from 20 backwards or softly repeat a word slowly. Take your time to say oooonne. You are using your voice as a harmonic instrument to soothe and distress you.
Try four-square breathing. Inhale to a count of four, hold four, release four, hold four, and inhale four. Continue this several times. This slows your heart and your pulse rate down.
These techniques and good preparation should hold you in good stead for hurricane season. Remember pent up stress can become a biological hazard -- so don't let it get you!
