My new routine:
Addressing issues as they come up, not pushing them off to the side or stuffing it inside. Solve it and move forward.
Walk 30 minutes Mon, Wed, Fri, followed by a deep tissue massage. And, Tues., Thurs., do upper and lower back stretch exercises.
Eat and drink healthy: lean meats, veggies, fruits as desserts only. Healthy snacks such as nuts. Reduce significantly if not eliminate altogether: sugar, caffeine, alcohol intake. Instead, water with lemon or lime, sparkling mineral water with 100% natural cranberry juice, decaf tea, decaf coffee, cocoa as a treat once in awhile. I take vitamins which makes me feel better and I notice a difference when I don't.
I should have mentioned, first, prayer and meditation to be able to handle whatever the day's events may unfold.
I have to take care of all areas of my life in order to be whole and not lacking: spiritually, mentally, physically, socially.
I'm getting out more to mall walk, get a massage, socialize with friends at Target for a decaf coffee break. I try to get out every day and I also know rest is important as well, so I can take the weekends off. Back recovery is my main/top priority now and I have a ways to go; however I can prevent it by not twisting while I lift, not sitting at my desk for long periods of time without taking several breaks to stretch my back, and by doing my exercises.
Also, V.I.P. is having a positive attitude which empowers you to do things you otherwise could not. Be your best friend, be your own cheerleader, lift yourself up if you don't have others to do so. Also, a good night's sleep keeps anxiety away. I don't think about anything when I'm tired or exhausted, I put it on the shelf to revisit after I'm rested. It avoids unnecessary stress.
Wow - I had more to say than I thought :-)
Shari