Hey there!

Johanan here, feeling you on the busy life front. Seems like stress is just this unwelcome roommate these days, right? Between work deadlines, family being far away, and just the general craziness of life, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

But hey, listen up, there's actually some really good science-backed ways to beat stress and live a happier life. Here's what I'm doing:

• Sleep is your best friend: You know that tired, foggy feeling you get when you don't sleep enough? Yeah, that makes stress so much worse. Aim for 7-8 hours a night, and try to go to bed and wake up around the same time each day to regulate your body's natural rhythm. My wife and I are night owls ourselves, but we found that winding down a bit earlier, and sticking to it, even if it's for a board game night or reading instead of watching shows, really helps us feel more rested.

• Quiet mornings make a big difference: Take a few minutes in the morning to just breathe and center yourself. It can be prayer, meditation, journaling, whatever works for you. My wife recently challenged me to think about the bigger purpose in all the stress, and those quiet mornings have been helping me see this as a season of growth for us, preparing for the future we want with kids and a strong foundation.

• Move that body!: Exercise is a natural stress reliever, and even a little bit goes a long way. Find something you actually enjoy, whether it's a run, hitting the gym, or a HIIT workout at home. Consistency is key here, so pick a time that works for you and stick with it. Don't worry about being perfect, just get your body moving.

• Find your tribe: Having a strong support network is like a magic stress shield. These are the people you can vent to, who will help you with chores or errands, and who can offer advice and keep you accountable for your goals. My wife and I are lucky to have a great group of friends and family who fit all these roles. We have friends for weekend getaways, family just a phone call away, and mentors who guide us on everything from finances to marriage.

• Boundaries are your friend: We'll dig deeper into this next time, but setting boundaries is crucial for protecting your mental health. It's about saying no to things that drain your energy and learning to communicate your needs clearly.

Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself as you build new habits and find what works for you. Don't sweat the small stuff, and focus on living your best life, one stress-managed day at a time.

And hey, the best news? You've totally got this!

Stay healthy, Stay awesome,
Johanan Nunez - Fuel your passions!