Stress is an inevitable part of life.
Managing it effectively is an important component of a holistic health lifestyle.
There is good stress and bad stress.
Even good stress can be difficult to deal with and taxing on the body, mind and spirit.
It is impossible to eliminate stress completely, nor would you want to, a certain amount of stress is healthy.
The key is to find ways to minimize its negative impact on your life, cope effectively and reduce the excess.
A holistic approach to stress management is always the most effective.
Try to incorporate some of these stress relievers into your life.
~ Don't take on too much at one time.
Say no when you want to.
~ Allow yourself to live within your limits.
Don't push yourself too hard.
~ Be patient, loving and forgiving with yourself.
~ Take frequent breaks.
~ Make adjustments in your life according to what your body needs.
~ Pace yourself.
Break tasks and chores into increments.
Allow yourself adequate time to achieve tasks.
~ Prepare ahead and plan resting periods after events you know will drain you.
~ Make love or if you're alone masturbate.
Endorphins released during sexual activity are a great stress reliever.
~ Limit your time on the phone and interactions.
Constant talking and interacting can be draining.
~ Take a hot shower or bath without interruptions.
~ Listen to soothing music.
If music or sound is an irritant for you, then this suggestion is not for you.
~ Take a day trip.
A short trip to a peaceful place such as the ocean, lake, park, zoo, etc.
can be very relaxing and soothing.
If your health limits allow take a vacation.
~ Make lists of chores, activities, tasks, etc.
and do them one at a time.
~ Participate in activities that are meaningful to you and give purpose to your life.
~ Avoid drugs and alcohol.
They only mask your symptoms and will intensify the problem in the long run.
~ Eat a healthy well balanced diet.
Avoid caffeine and sugar.
~ Get proper sleep - if you're sleep deprived you can't cope well with stress.
~ Partake in deep breathing exercises.
The breath is a great calming agent.
~ Humor is great for the soul.
Get regular doses.
~ Regular exercise burns stress off and helps you cope better.
~ Spend time with nature.
It nurtures, soothes and feeds.
~ Engage in prayer or meditation.
~ Take frequent naps or resting periods- Naps can be very rejuvenating.
~ Vent emotional stress.
Talk it out, write it out or whatever it takes to release it.
Don't let it build.