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Health

10 things worth trying during times of stress, trauma, or crisis.

Feel like throwing in the towel? Try these tips instead.

science, health, self-care, community
Image via Pixabay.

It may take many tools to properly cope with stress.

This article originally appeared on 12.22.15


Regardless of what you're going through, self-care is important.

I once read something that said, "It's not the hard times that define you, it's how you respond." One important tool when it comes to dealing with personal challenges is self-care.

What is self-care? The University of Kentucky's Student Affairs Center describes self-care as "[A]ny intentional actions you take to care for your physical, mental, and emotional health."



In times of stress, trauma, or crisis, practicing self-care can help manage your health.

While self-care isn't the be-all and end-all to dealing with stress, it can be a valuable recovery tool. Here are a few self-care suggestions from Crisis Clinic.

1. Exercise — even a little bit.

yoga, fitness, mental health, psychology

A woman stretches on a yoga mat.

Photo by Dane Wetton on Unsplash

Don't worry, we're not talking about running a marathon here. Your form of exercise can be as light or as intense as you want it to be. Don't have access to a gym? No problem! Take a walk around the block, try a yoga routine on YouTube, climb the bleachers at your local high school track, go window-shopping at the mall, or give your home a speedy power clean. There are tons of ways to get your endorphins pumping, and any number of them can have a positive impact on your mood.

2. Give yourself permission to focus on someone outside yourself.

Making someone else feel good is a great way to lift your own spirits. Try volunteering or call up an old friend or family member you haven't talked to in a while and brighten their day.

3. Give and get physical touch: A hug can do wonders.

intimacy, relationships, friendship, sociology

Good hugs require you to really get in there.

Photo by Tani Eisenstein on Unsplash

4. Give yourself permission to feel bad: Schedule it in your day. Remind yourself that your reactions are normal.

Sometimes the worst thing you can do when you're feeling down is to beat yourself up for feeling down. Remember you're human and everyone has good days and bad days.

5. Give yourself permission to feel good.

Everyone's feel-good solution is different. Just be careful and make sure not to partake in activities that could cause harm to yourself or anyone else. Get some ice cream, watch your favorite movie, or laugh at a fart joke! Sometimes when we're going through something difficult, we keep ourselves from experiencing joy because we don't think it's appropriate or we think we don't deserve it. Remember that it's OK to laugh and feel good during times of sadness, even if it's only for a moment.

6. Structure your time and develop a routine.

Finding time for friends, family, work, play, and everything in between can be difficult, even on your best days. Too often when we're extremely busy or stressed, we forget to make time for even simple things like lunch or quiet time. To make things easier on yourself, try setting alarms on your phone or online calendar for everything from meetings and appointments to taking your vitamins. There are also tons of productivity apps you can use to set for daily, weekly, and even hourly goals if needed. Not a fan of digital scheduling? Try a paper planner or giant laminated calendar to help organize and structure your days.

7. Engage in practices that are meaningful to you, such as prayer, walking in the woods, sitting quietly, reading inspirational material, taking a bath, or writing in a journal.

meditation, spirituality, medicine, education

It's always a good time to check in with yourself.

Photo by Darius Bashar on Unsplash

8. Take breaks from periods of isolation.

Everyone needs alone time now and then, but try setting a timer for yourself so you can get some fresh air and connect with others.

9. Talk it out — even with a professional.

Don't have health insurance or access to a health care professional? There are tons of free resources that can connect you with someone online or by phone. Check out yourlifeyourvoice.org for videos, articles, and local resources for people struggling with depression. Also, the Crisis Clinic (the wonderful organization behind this self-care list) has a 24-hour hotline.

10. Get plenty of rest so that you feel refreshed and relaxed.

Don't underestimate the power of a good night's sleep! If you have trouble sleeping at night, try turning off the TV and electronic devices like your cell phone and computer at least one hour before you want to go to bed. A cup of hot (decaf) tea before bed can be helpful. Also, things like regular exercise, stretching, and calming music can help your body successfully power down before bedtime.

Self-care shouldn't just be for the tough times. Make it a habit worth keeping.

The tricky thing about self-care is that when you're feeling down, exercising or going to see a doctor is usually the last thing on your mind. That's why it's important to make self-care a part of your daily life. Self-care can be an important tool for times of crisis, but it's much easier to implement if you're taking care of yourself during the good times, too.

True

We’ve all been hearing urgent warnings from scientists, government, and corporate leaders on the need to limit the planet's global temperature warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius to avoid the most devastating impacts of climate change.

Several studies, including research from the National Academy of Sciences indicate if we continue on the path we are on, we will likely hit that pivotal moment of global warming in the early 2030s. It’s clear that more needs to be done —and faster—to avoid the worst impacts of climate change and secure a thriving and sustainable economy for everyone.

Broader research is also showing people care more than ever about what companies are doing to address this challenge. In a 2022 global survey from IBM, 51% of respondents said environmental sustainability is more important to them now than it was the year before. And a 2022 Yale survey found that 51% of U.S. business students would even take lower pay to work for a company with better environmental practices — a signal of the topic's importance.

T-Mobile is an example of a company that has led the wireless industry in these efforts starting with its pledge in 2018 to source 100% of its total electricity usage with renewable energy and being the first in U.S. wireless to set science-based carbon reduction goals and then reach them in 2021. This year, T-Mobile stepped up even more by becoming the first U.S. wireless provider to announce a net-zero target for its entire carbon footprint.

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Stock photos of any job are usually delightful cringey. Sure, sometimes they sort of get the essence of a job, but a lot of the time the interpretation is downright cartoonish. One glance and it becomes abundantly clear that for some careers, we have no freakin’ clue what it is that people do.

Dr. Kit Chapman, an award-winning science journalist and academic at Falmouth University in the U.K., recently held an impromptu contest on Twitter where viewers could vote on which photos were the best of the worst when it came to jobs in scientific fields.

According to Chapman’s entries, a day in the life of a scientist includes poking syringes into chickens, wearing a lab coat (unless you’re a “sexy” scientist, then you wear lingerie) and holding vials of colored liquid. Lots and lots of vials.

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Pop Culture

Family-run business crafts gorgeous heirloom-quality leather bags for the modern world

Kodiak Leather is the perfect blend of style, functionality, and timeless appeal.

Editor's Note: Upworthy earns a percentage of proceeds from sales of items listed in this article


We live in a disposable culture where products are cheap and abundant but not built to last. And in the short term, that's great. But over the long haul, this wasteful mindset takes its toll, especially on the environment. However, a company called Kodiak Leather is trying to change that. As a family-run business, Kodiak Leather remains dedicated to crafting heirloom-quality bags for the modern world. Driven by a passion for people and leather, the brand offers products that embody the perfect blend of style, functionality, and timeless appeal. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans from around the world, ensuring that you receive a treasure designed to last a lifetime and worthy of being passed down through generations.

Heirloom-quality leather goods provide a sense of luxury and durability and hold sentimental value as they become an essential part of your life's story. These timeless accessories only improve with age as they witness your experiences and adventures while maintaining elegance and character. Investing in heirloom-quality leather products is not just about owning a fashionable piece; it's about preserving a legacy for future generations.

The Kodiak Leather Difference

At the heart of Kodiak Leather's success is its collaboration with skilled artisans from the US and India, who share the brand's passion for quality and ethics. This global partnership ensures that each product is expertly crafted and adheres to the highest standards of ethical production and material sourcing. By choosing Kodiak Leather, you're investing in a brand that values craftsmanship, sustainability, and the art of leatherworking.

Kodiak Leather's rigorous quality control process sets them apart from the competition. Each product undergoes multiple inspections before it's shipped, guaranteeing that you receive a piece that is both flawless and worthy of being passed down through generations. This dedication to heirloom-quality craftsmanship ensures that your Kodiak Leather products will stand the test of time and become cherished family treasures.

When you purchase a Kodiak Leather product, you're not just buying an accessory – you're joining the Kodiak Family. The personal touch and care that goes into crafting each piece is a testament to the company's passion for people and leather. From the artisans who create the products to the customers who use them, the Kodiak Leather family is bound by a shared love for timeless, heirloom-quality goods that enrich lives and tell stories.

Kodiak Leather has carefully curated a collection that features products designed to cater to the needs of today's discerning consumers. Among their most popular offerings are the versatile Katmai Leather Backpack, the stylish and functional Juneau Leather Tote, and the charming Drifter Leather Journal. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted with attention to detail, ensuring that they look good and serve their purpose efficiently, making them the ideal companions for the modern individual.

The Katmai Leather Backpack

The Katmai Leather Backpack is a standout piece in the Kodiak Leather collection, boasting top-grain cowhide that looks stunning and promises durability. Designed with multiple compartments and pockets, this backpack has ample space for all your essentials. The adjustable straps and carrying handle offer convenience and comfort, making it easy to take your backpack wherever you go.

Perfect for both work and leisure, the Katmai Leather Backpack is designed with versatility in mind. Its unisex aesthetic makes it suitable for everyone, while the padded laptop compartment and organized storage options cater to your busy lifestyle. Whether you're heading to the office or embarking on an adventure, this backpack is your ideal companion.

One of the most appealing aspects of the Katmai Leather Backpack is the leather's aging process. Over time, the top-grain cowhide develops a beautiful patina, which adds character and depth to the backpack. This natural aging process enhances the bag's visual appeal and serves as a testament to its timeless elegance, ensuring that your Katmai Leather Backpack remains a stylish accessory for years to come.

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kodiak katmai leather backpack
Katmai Leather Backpack
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The Juneau Leather Tote w/ Pocket

Crafted from top grain water buffalo leather, the Juneau Leather Tote is both a stylish and practical addition to your accessory collection. This tote features an exterior easy-access pocket, perfect for stashing items you need on hand and large carry handles that comfortably fit over your shoulder. The rich texture and natural variations in the leather make each tote unique.

When it comes to style and functionality, the Juneau Leather Tote has it all. The spacious interior, complete with pockets for organization, ensures you can easily carry everything you need. The interior zippered pocket and hidden magnetic closure offer added security for your belongings, making this tote perfect for everyday use. Whether you're heading to work, running errands, or enjoying a day out, the Juneau Leather Tote is ready to help you take on the world.

Kodiak Leather is committed to using only the highest quality materials, and the Juneau Leather Tote is no exception. The water buffalo leather is visually stunning and incredibly durable, making this tote a long-lasting investment. With proper care, your Juneau Leather Tote will age gracefully and continue to impress for years to come, proving that it's more than just a fashion statement - it's a testament to the Kodiak Leather legacy.

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kodiak Juneau leather tote bag
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The Drifter Leather Journal

The Drifter Leather Journal is a true reflection of Kodiak Leather's dedication to craftsmanship and quality. Made from top-grain leather and featuring a snap button closure, this journal is both elegant and secure. Inside, you'll find handmade artisan paper, giving it a unique and personal touch. The refillable design ensures that you can continue using this beautiful journal for years, making it a cherished keepsake.

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Owning a timeless artifact like the Drifter Leather Journal goes beyond simply having a stylish accessory. It represents an opportunity for personal reflection, growth, and connection to your experiences. As you fill its pages with your thoughts, dreams, and memories, it becomes a treasured part of your life story – one that can be passed down through generations, enriching the lives of those who come after you.

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Experience Kodiak Leather For Yourself

Kodiak Leather offers a stunning range of products that blend style, functionality, and timeless appeal. The Katmai Leather Backpack, Juneau Leather Tote w/ Pocket, and Drifter Leather Journal each possess unique features and benefits, catering to the diverse needs of the modern world. These versatile and stylish accessories are designed to support your busy lifestyle while making a lasting impression.

Investing in heirloom-quality leather goods from Kodiak Leather means more than just owning a beautiful accessory. It's about embracing the lasting impact of these products as they become an integral part of your life story and, eventually, the stories of future generations. By choosing Kodiak Leather, you're investing in a legacy of craftsmanship, durability, and timeless elegance.

So, why not explore the exceptional Kodiak Leather collection and discover the perfect piece that resonates with your personal style? Become part of the Kodiak Family today and experience the difference that heirloom-quality leather goods can make in your life.

Stop what you're doing. There's a dog that looks just like Snoopy.

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Snoopy is Charlie Brown's pet from the comic strip "Peanuts" that eventually spawned several movies and cartoon series, and Bayley is a dead ringer for the black and white animated pup. Since we live in a digital age, people across the country have been falling all over themselves to get to the pooch's Instagram account and admire her cartoonish mug.

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Her refusal to be silent about her son’s autism led her to create a 'Hero Squad' for action

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Photo by Leonard Donjuan, used with permission

Jen Coats and family at the Local Hearts Foundation 2nd Annual Baskets & Pancakes event.

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