As my full moon lore got a number of posts on stress, thought that I would see what other folks do to relieve stress. I know that being miles and miles away from people helps and the simple chores of tending to a small garden and a few chickens can be relaxing.

So, does homesteading provide a outlet for stress or create more stress?

-- BC (desertdweller44@yahoo.com), March 30, 2002

Answers

Homesteading and chess for me. Its getting to the point now where I spend all my free time expanding my BISF capabilities and find myself giving a sigh of relief when I'm turned down for plant jobs because I'm over qualified or too long in the field. (my family and friends keep submitting my resume because of the importance of a "real job"). Maybe one of these days, they will realize I have been working 60 - 80 hour weeks and making my bills without any assistance and let up :>)

-- Jay Blair in N. AL (jayblair678@yahoo.com), March 30, 2002.

I love coming home! I have to say it is an outlet for stress. There are things I can dwell on and obsess over and create more stress for myself but I know I am doing it. I can let go of that stuff easier at home. I find my animals are a wonderful stress releaser for me. Sitting in a rocking chair with a cat on my lap and a cup of hot tea and I can zone easily in a few minutes. Sort of like putting your computer to sleep. I get recharged and am ready for the next round of what ever life hands to me.

Susan

-- Susan in MN (nanaboo@paulbunyan.net), March 30, 2002.

I work away mostly 100 hour plus weeks while im on the road!! Getting back to my little place on earth is all the fix i need!! When i top that Mountain going home a whole new me comes out!!

-- Grizz workin near D.C. (southerneagle@yahoo.com), April 02, 2002.

After working with the public all day I enjoy being alone with my animals. Walking my dog and watching the chickens chase bugs.

-- BB (johnson337@hotmail.com), April 02, 2002.

I love to watch the chickens too! They are so funny. especially when they find a nest of ants. When I got my first chickens years ago a girlfirend of mine and I pulled up lawn chairs and just sat for an hour or so watching them move around the yard. I have to say again that animals are one of the best stress reducers.

-- Susan in MN (nanaboo@paulbunyan.net), April 02, 2002.

Like everyone else just getting home slows my heart rate. I have a chair in the backyard where I sit and can watch the goats and the kids and the chickens. If I really need to calm down, I go into the goat pasture and meditate with my goats. Sitting on the front porch in the evening with a cold bottle of MGD is pretty nice too

-- Karen in Kansas (kansashobbit@yahoo.com), April 04, 2002.