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Who would have thought that trying something new was a good way to relieve stress. Yes....it's a great place to start. I am excited to share this tip especially because many people think it's stressful to start something new. So what will you try today?

Thank you for listening. Please remember to subscribe and follow me on Instagram @tonigonzalezwellness

Stay safe.

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Transcript
00:00:02
Toni Gonzalez
Yes, this is true.

Introduction to Stress Relief and Self-care

00:00:44
Toni Gonzalez
Hello friends, welcome back to this week's episode. Of course, we focus on you and the things that can help you relieve stress, but more importantly, add self-care to a daily routine.
00:00:58
Toni Gonzalez
So this week I'm talking to you about really another mindful moment, but starting something new, trying something new. Now let's paint a picture.
00:01:11
Toni Gonzalez
You've just finished a long, intense shift and you're hitting that emotional wall. The tension building in your shoulders, racing about racing thoughts on your mind.
00:01:25
Toni Gonzalez
You're thinking about incidents that occurred, your shift, all those things, right? And the ever-present uncertainty of the job.

How Can New Skills Relieve Stress?

00:01:35
Toni Gonzalez
You might be thinking,
00:01:37
Toni Gonzalez
How do I shift gears and unwind?
00:01:46
Toni Gonzalez
What if I told you that picking up a new skill or a hobby could be your secret weapon against stress? Yes, let's explore the science behind this. Studies show that engaging in new learning experiences can significantly reduce stress levels. When you focus on learning, your brain shifts away from stressors, creating new neural pathways. Essentially, you give your mind a mini vacation from the daily grind.

Mindfulness Through Hobbies

00:02:13
Toni Gonzalez
So what types of skills can you learn? Think of something you've always wanted to try, cooking, painting, garden design, martial arts, or even learning a musical instrument.
00:02:24
Toni Gonzalez
The options are endless, people. They're endless. Here's the best part. The process of learning isn't just about the skill itself. It's about the mindfulness involved.
00:02:35
Toni Gonzalez
When you engage with a new hobby, you become fully present. You have to concentrate to focus your attention. This is a fantastic way to practice mindfulness, which can be tremendously beneficial for managing stress.

Benefits for First Responders

00:02:53
Toni Gonzalez
Now let's consider the benefits specifically for first responders. First one is creative outlet. Engaging in artistic pursuits like painting or music allows your mind to express emotions that can be hard to articulate.
00:03:06
Toni Gonzalez
Two, physical activity. Hobbies like sports or martial arts not only keep you fit, but also help in releasing endorphins, those natural mood lifters. The feel-good hormones, I call them. Three, social connection. Joining a class or workshop can help foster camaraderie and support from others who share your interests.
00:03:27
Toni Gonzalez
Four, break the routine. Learning something new shakes you out of the routine. It provides a refreshing change of pace, allowing your mind to reset.

Making Time for Learning

00:03:39
Toni Gonzalez
So let's take a moment to think about a skill you've always wanted to explore. Picture this. You allocate just 30 minutes a week to this new venture. You might feel anxiety easing away. And before you know it, you're also celebrating small victories along the way.
00:03:57
Toni Gonzalez
So bringing it all together, my friends, dedicate just 15 minutes a day to learning something new. Set a timer, find a quiet space and let yourself play. Whether it's reading, watching tutorials or practicing, commit that commit to that time just for you.
00:04:15
Toni Gonzalez
The goal isn't perfection, it's progress. Remember, every small step counts. It really does. So I want to thank you for joining me each week. I want to thank

Podcast Engagement and Resources

00:04:25
Toni Gonzalez
you for listening. If you haven't hit subscribe, please hit subscribe.
00:04:31
Toni Gonzalez
If you haven't hit subscribe, please hit subscribe. And share it out with your friends. If you haven't done that, I would appreciate it if you did. Also, i have other sources information.
00:04:43
Toni Gonzalez
resources on my link tree, on my YouTube, please head on over there and show me some love and subscribe to my Instagram as well. I want to thank you always for being here. And I'm truly, truly grateful if I haven't said it enough. Also, I want to remind you to do a couple of things. You know what they are.
00:05:02
Toni Gonzalez
Do something daily for yourself. Place yourself on top of the list. And more importantly, i want to remind you to stay safe out there and i will talk to you soon.