Volunteer reflection - United Nations Volunteers

34 . UNITED NATIONS VOLUNTEERS: VOLUNTEER REFLECTIONIt is very important to make time for funand relaxationSet aside relaxation time. Include restand relaxation in your daily schedule.Connect with others. Spend time withpositive people who enhance your lifeDo something you enjoy every day.Make time for leisure activities that bringyou joy.Keep your sense of humor. Thisincludes the ability to laugh at yourself.Exercise regularly. Physical activityplays a key role in reducing andpreventing the effects of stress. Maketime for at least 30 minutes of exercise,three times per week.mask the issue at hand; deal withproblems head on and with a clear mind.Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep fuelsyour mind, as well as your body. Feelingtired will increase your stress because itmay cause you to think irrationally. 4Basic principles of stress control in thefield to remember:■ Emotional reactions are normalresponses to abnormal situations■ Every individual has a unique way toexperience stress disorder and torecover from it■ Emotions control is everybody’s ownpersonal commitment■ Stress control is the head of themission’s responsibilityEat a healthy diet. Well-nourished bodiesare better prepared to cope with stress.Reduce caffeine and sugar. Thetemporary “highs” caffeine and sugarprovide often end in with a crash in moodand energy.Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs.Self-medicating with alcohol or drugs mayprovide an easy escape from stress, butthe relief is only temporary. Don’t avoid or4. Adapted material from the online stress management guide:http://helpguide.org/mental/stress_management_relief_coping.htm