| Have we not all felt stress at one time or another? | | | | Do one thing at a time. - Try taking on one task at a |
| However, there are those who feel it more often | | | | time to prevent getting a feeling of being |
| than others. To them, stress has become a part of | | | | overwhelmed. |
| their daily routine. | | | | Make a list of things you need to do. Put the most |
| Stress has been linked as a likely cause of numerous | | | | urgent task at the top. Once you have accomplished |
| symtoms of disease. These conditions include | | | | it, cross it off and move on to the next one. The |
| symptoms of coronary artery disease, stroke, | | | | positive feeling of crossing things off can be very |
| immune disorders, gastrointestinal problems such as | | | | motivating. |
| irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel | | | | Exercise - Regular exercise is a good way to reduce |
| disease, eating problems, diabetes, sleep disturbances, | | | | stress, and it benefits the body as well as the mind. |
| and sexual reproductive dysfunction. | | | | Just 20-30 minutes of physical activity a day can do |
| It is important that you learn to reduce your stress | | | | the trick. |
| levels so that you can live a happier, healthier and | | | | Practice a hobby - A hobby is a good way to take a |
| maybe longer life. | | | | break from the stress factors of life while doing |
| The National Health Association recently | | | | something you really enjoy. Try gardening, painting, |
| recommended ten tips that will help you reduce your | | | | or reading. Schedule time to indulge your interests. |
| stress. | | | | Practice a healthful lifestyle. - Eating healthfully will |
| Be realistic - Learn to say no rather than taking on | | | | make a difference. Also avoid things like smoking, |
| every project and set realistic goals. | | | | excessive alcohol, and excessive caffeine. |
| Should you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, | | | | Make sure your daily routine includes adequate rest |
| eliminate an activity that is not essential. It will help to | | | | and exercise, Remember to achieve a balance |
| ask yourself, "what really has to be done? Is this | | | | between work and play. |
| deadline realistic." | | | | Share your feelings. - Talking about things can help |
| Don't expect perfection. After all, no one is perfect. | | | | you feel better. A conversation with a trusted friend |
| So, don't expect perfection from yourself or others. | | | | can help you relax, and you can take the focus off |
| When you find you need help, ask for it. | | | | yourself by listening to someone else. |
| Meditate - It is easy to do and takes only a few | | | | Stay in touch with your family and friends; don't try |
| minutes. In 10-20 minutes of meditation, you will | | | | to cope with life alone. |
| realize the benefits. | | | | Give in occasionally. - You don't always have to be |
| You will find that quiet quiet reflection may bring | | | | right. Be flexible and willing to compromise. If you do, |
| relief from stress and increase your tolerance to it. | | | | others may be willing to compromise, too. |
| Sit quietly, listen to peaceful music, relax, and try to | | | | When you know you are right, stand your ground in |
| think of pleasant things or think of nothing. | | | | a calm and rational manner. Remember to listen and |
| Visualize - Picture in your mind how you can manage | | | | make allowances for other's opinions. |
| some stressful situation in a calm successful way. | | | | Go easy with criticism. - Expecting to much from |
| You can use this technique with almost any situation. | | | | others and yourself can lead to feelings of frustration. |
| Try it with an important presentation at work, taking | | | | It may cause you to have a feeling of being let |
| a test or even your next move. | | | | down or disappointment. |
| A visual rehearsal can enhance self-confidence and | | | | Everyone, including yourself, has shortcomings, but |
| provide a more positive attitude toward a difficult | | | | each also has qualities of inner beauty they can share. |
| task. | | | | |