How to Spot Stress Early and Quick Tips for Reclaiming Your Peace


Let’s be honest—life is full, and some days it feels like you’re sprinting from one thing to the next without a chance to breathe.

Whether you're juggling work deadlines, keeping up with sports practices, or just trying to fold that same load of laundry for the third freaking time... stress has a way of sneaking in. Even when we’re doing the things we love, the pace of life can take a toll on our bodies and minds.

April is Stress Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to pause, reflect, and take inventory of how we’re really doing. If we want to continue showing up well—for our families, our work, and ourselves—we have to learn how to recognize stress early and respond with intention.

Did You Know?

Your body often reacts to stress before your mind does.
  • Tight shoulders
  • Shallow breathing
  • Trouble sleeping
These are some of the first signs that your stress response is activated. And when left unaddressed, chronic stress can deplete your energy, disrupt your hormones, and negatively impact your overall well-being.

A Small Shift That Makes a Big Impact:

Start a “stress journal” this week.

Here’s how it works:
  • Jot down the moments you feel anxious or tense.
  • Note the trigger and your physical or emotional reaction.
  • Look for patterns.
When you understand your stress triggers, you can begin to make empowered choices in how you respond.



Add a Touch of Calm with Essential Oils

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know I love leaning into natural solutions—especially when it comes to managing emotions and finding peace in the middle of a busy day.

Here are two oils I keep in rotation:
  • Stress Away™ Roll-On
    This soothing blend of vanilla, lime, and other comforting oils is perfect for your purse, desk, or bedside. I like to apply it to my wrists, neck, ears, or heart and take a few deep breaths whenever I feel my stress levels rising.
  • Grounding™ Essential Oil
    This warm, earthy blend helps promote emotional stability. Diffuse it while journaling, during prayer or meditation, or even at the end of the day when you need to settle your thoughts.
These tiny moments of self-care help retrain your nervous system—and the more consistently you show up for yourself, the more resilient you become.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

What’s something you do to relax when stress hits? Leave a comment or send me a message—I'd love to hear your favorite ways to create calm and support your nervous system naturally.