Have you ever felt like you’re carrying stress all the time, even when nothing’s really going wrong? Like your brain won’t stop spinning, or your body feels tense and tired for no clear reason? I get it. I’ve seen it in so many people and honestly, I’ve felt it myself too.
But here’s something I’ve learned after working with people for over 30 years: one small, simple habit done regularly can totally change how you deal with stress. It might sound too easy, but I’ve watched it work over and over again.
I’m here to help you understand how stress works, why it doesn’t have to control your life, and how you can build stress reduction habits that actually help you feel better for good.
Let’s find your calm. Together.
What Is Stress?
Stress isn’t always bad. In small amounts, it helps you focus, react quickly, and stay alert. But when stress sticks around for too long or feels way too heavy, it starts to mess with your body and your mind. You might have trouble sleeping. You might feel anxious all the time. You could even get stomachaches or headaches that seem to come out of nowhere.
That’s why I focus on something called stress reduction. That means helping you bring stress levels down and teaching your body to stay calm when things get overwhelming.
The Power of Small Habits
When people first come to me, they often think they need to make big, dramatic changes to feel better. But I tell them something different: you don’t have to change your whole life. You just need to do one small thing and keep doing it.
A small habit, like taking a few deep breaths when you’re upset or tapping on certain points on your body (I’ll explain that in a second), can help “rewire” your stress response. That means your brain and body learn how to stay calm more easily.
It doesn’t happen overnight, but if you stick with it, it works.
The Techniques I Use to Help with Stress
I’ve learned that not every tool works for every person. That’s why I use a few different techniques, and I always choose what works best for you.
Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET)
NET is a way to help you find hidden emotional stress that your body might still be holding on to. Sometimes, we feel overwhelmed, and we don’t even know why. With NET, I guide you through simple steps to help your body let go of old emotional patterns. It’s gentle and doesn’t take a lot of time.
First Aid Stress Tool (FAST)
FAST is one of my favorite tools to teach. It’s a simple, quick technique designed to help you calm your nervous system and regain balance in moments of stress. You’ll use specific pressure points on your body and a mindful breathing process to bring immediate relief. I’ll guide you through it so you can use it anytime you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Both NET and FAST are quick, safe, and easy to learn. And they’re super helpful when you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
Simple Stress Reduction Techniques You Can Use Right Now
Here are a few small things I often teach people in my sessions. You can try them yourself, and if we work together, I’ll show you how to make them a regular part of your life.
- Deep Breathing – Take slow breaths in and out. Try counting to four as you breathe in, holding for four, and breathing out for four. This helps your body calm down fast.
- Writing It Out – Grab a notebook and write whatever’s on your mind. No rules. Just let it out.
- Moving Your Body – Go for a walk, stretch, or even dance in your room. Moving helps release stress.
- Taking Breaks – Don’t push yourself nonstop. Step away from homework or your phone for a few minutes. Your brain needs rest too.
You don’t have to do all of these every day. Just start with one.
FAQs
Q: Can something this small really make a difference?
Yes. It’s not about doing a lot. It’s about doing something helpful over and over. That’s how you retrain your brain and body to stay calm.
Q: What’s tapping, and does it hurt?
Tapping (EFT) is when you gently tap on certain spots like near your eyes or collarbone—while thinking about something stressful. It doesn’t hurt at all. In fact, it often makes people feel better right away.
Q: What if I don’t want to talk about everything in my life?
That’s okay. I never force anyone to talk about things they’re not ready for. I’m here to support you, not pressure you.
Q: How do I know if I should work with someone like you?
If stress is making your life harder if it’s messing with your sleep, mood, focus, or how you feel about yourself then getting help is a smart move. You don’t have to be “broken” to need support.
Q: How can I or my parent set up a time with you?
It’s easy. Just go to wayneda.com and click on the appointments page. Everything you need is there.
Ready to Start?
If you’ve read this far, then maybe you’re already thinking about what small change you could make. And I want you to know you can do this. You don’t have to wait until everything is perfect or until you’ve “figured it all out.”
All you need to do is take one small step. And if you’re ready, I’d be honored to take that step with you with the best stress reduction techniques.
Let’s find your calm. Together.