6 Ways to Reduce the Stress in Your Life

Stress is so bad for your mental and physical health. It is an unseen killer. If you will learn a few ways to help deal with it, it will be very beneficial to you.

These ideas have been cast about before but they are worth a second look.

Here’s what I try to remember to do daily to help curve stress. Keeping yourself healthy is paramount.

1. EXERCISE

This is one of the best ways to relax your mind and body and it will help to take your mind off of the things that cause your work-a-day stress.

Going for walks counts as exercise. The brisker you walk the better. But do take time to stop and smell the roses!

2. Get Stretching

You must learn to relax your muscles. Everything inside you tenses up when you are stressed.

Try to relax by stretching. Take it easy. Don’t force yourself into stretching positions that you have never done before. You might end of pulling muscles that will cause you more stress.

Go have a massage and let someone else work out the kinks.

Don’t forget soaking in a hot tub with your favorite bath oils. Light one of your favorite candles and drift away for a few precious moments.

3. REST

You must get a good nights sleep. I know sleep is elusive for so many of us.

Try going to bed early so your body can relax. You may find that you sleep better.

Sleepytime Tea with Valerian works for me. It’s safe and not a chemical to make you dependent.

4. DEEP BREATHING

This is pretty simple really, since we all breathe every second of every day.

You can take deep breaths where ever you are.

And especially when you are stuck in heavy traffic give this a try. It might make the conditions more tolerable.

5. EATING RIGHT

Eat a well balanced diet.

I know we hear that all the time, but if you do, your overall mood will be better.

Some of us may not know what a well balanced diet is.

It’s vegetables and fruits, whole grains and lean portions of protein for energy.

No processed foods or foods loaded with sugar.

Anything in a box or can is over processed and loaded with sodium and other things your body does not need.

Also, give up sugary sodas. Drink mineral water or tea.

6. CHILL OUT

You must slow down. Where are we all rushing to that is so important? Believe me, if you drop dead, the world will not stop for you.

Never be late. It causes stress, so set your watch ahead. Being late makes people rush and can cause car accidents or heart attacks.

You want to arrive at your destination composed and calm. So don’t be late!

Don’t speed around other cars or ride their bumpers because you are in a hurry. People don’t like it and it can cause you to be a victim of road rage.

Drive in the slow lanes so other cars can pass you and don’t make eye contact with anyone passing you.

Divide your must do big jobs into smaller, more manageable tasks. You are only one person and you can’t do everything at once. Forget muti-tasking. Think of your health instead.

Do you have a favorite book that you like to read? Open it up and read a few passages.

The standard stress relievers are:

• Meditation
• Tai Chi
• Yoga
• Prayer
• Favorite calming music
• Go outside. Watch the birds.
• Hike or enjoy a leisurely walk

Give these ideas a try and see what works for you.