It is common knowledge that with the practice of law comes plenty of practice dealing with stress. One would be hard pressed to find a lawyer who describes his or her job as low stress. Most lawyers are likely aware of the dangers and discomfort of persistent high stress, and most also know, at least in theory, about the importance of engaging in practices to counter, combat or reduce stress practices such as exercise, meditation/ deep breathing or engaging in relaxing or pleasurable activities. Yet for many lawyers taking care of themselves is often a neglected area of life. The reality is that managing stress is an ongoing work in progress. It requires a commitment to routines and strategies and practice. In a world full of instant gratification and quick fixes, the truth remains that managing our wellbeing takes real time, effort and commitment.
It is certainly understandable when stress is at its highest that there may be little real or apparent energy left to devote to established wellness practices, let alone time to create and start new ones. Ironically, occasions when stress is at bay or at a more simmering level can prove the most advantageous time to focus on and commit to a wellness routine.Taking the time and energy when it is available to establish and commit to a wellness routine can pay dividends, particularly when stress starts to kick into high gear. Once such a routine is established, it can become a source of refreshment and renewal. When stress levels starts to rise, those who have been faithful to some kind of wellness routine will likely find deeper reserves of stress relief within than they otherwise may have found.
