“Worrying does not take away tomorrow’s troubles, it takes away today’s peace.” ~Anonymous
It’s true that everybody experiences stress, but for those struggling with infertility, life is an emotional rollercoaster that doesn’t stop until the moment they’re holding their healthy baby in their arms.
As the quote above illustrates, there’s absolutely no point in constantly worrying, especially when you can’t change your circumstances. With that, here are five fun ways to wipe away the stress of infertility.
Pick up a new or old hobby
Take a minute to reflect on all the activities you once enjoyed doing before infertility stress took over. Rather than letting your situation define you, you should get back to being you! Sing, knit, draw, write—whatever gives you joy and lets you forget your troubles, even for just a little while.
Pamper Yourself
Don’t underestimate the value of simply taking a day for you. When you’re in good spirits and have a positive mindset, you’ll have the boost of self-esteem to overcome any obstacle that comes your way.
You could spend a day at the spa, get outside and relax in the sun, practice meditation, or have a picnic with your spouse or friend. Engage in some calming activities that will help you manage your worries more effectively.
Volunteer
Research shows that volunteering gives you a sense of purpose, keeps you physically and mentally active, reduces stress levels, and may even help you live longer. Finding a cause that you can devote your time and energy to will take your mind off your fertility, and even allow you to develop meaningful connections with other like-minded individuals for the greater good.
Take a vacation
Leave the devices behind, unplug from social media, and take a trip to a new and tranquil location for a few days for the ultimate getaway. Take this well-deserved time to bond with your partner and engage in fresh experiences without the distractions of your daily routine.
Take an Improv Class
Improv is a key technique used by actors, comedians, and musicians that stretches your imagination, sparks spontaneity, and requires you to be present and in the moment. It is also considered a form of mindfulness that relieves stress, increases confidence, enhances public speaking skills, improves decision making, and much more. Get your creative juices flowing, and give improv a try!
Remember, you don’t have to go through the fertility struggle alone, and when you put these tips into practice, we’re sure that you’ll start feeling more confident in your ability to overcome infertility stress.