Proven Stress Reducers

• Get at least seven to eight hours of sleep - Adequate rest improves physical and emotional health.  Avoid depending on stimulants such as coffee or nicotine.  Being tired can develop stress.

• Talk about your problems – Most people feel better when talking about their problems with trusted friends or a counselor.  When you share your burden, others can help to give you a clear path out of your problem.

• Have a positive outlook on life – Look at your daily issues in a positive manner.  Remind yourself of all the good things that are going on in your life and how lucky you are to be alive, have a loving family, a good career, etc.
  

• Solve your problems – Most every problem has a solution.  Some problems are difficult to solve while others are easy.  However, most of the time, it’s just a matter of sitting down and coming up with a plan to solve the problem.  Use the following problem solving techniques that have to proven to work:
• Define the problem
• Write it on paper
• Brainstorm different options
• Evaluate all options identified
• Choose the best solution
• Implement the solution
• An alternative to problem solving is to seek out people that can help you with your problems.

• Improve your communication skills – Many stressful situations between people often occur because of a lack of understanding which is caused by poor communication skills.  Most people want to be heard but hate to listen.  Learn to listen to work out minor problems before they become major.

• Simplify your life – If things are too hectic because you have too many things to do, then change or stop your hectic life.  Let some things go and take time for you.  Take time to walk around your block or on the beach / lake to just relax.  Learn to say “No thank you” to that extra project for which you have no energy for.

• Exercise regularly – Exercise has been shown to relief stress.  A brisk 30 minute walk or aerobic exercise will make you feel better and take your mind of things.  Maintain a regular exercise plan.

• Improve your diet – Eating healthy will make you feel better.  Eat well balanced meals daily.  Don’t miss breakfast.

• Listen to soothing music – As the old saying goes, “Music calms the savage beast”!  Well it’s the same for people.  Listen to your favorite calming music while you drive home from a stressful day at work or listen to music at home while you prepare dinner.

• Have a sense of humor – A healthy laugh is good!  Studies have shown that happy people live longer healthier lives.  Watch a funny movie or sitcom.  Set your VCR or DVR to record funny movies or sitcoms.

• Practice imagery – Sit in a quiet room with your eyes closed and visualize visiting your favorite relaxing, pleasant vacation spot.  In your mind feel the cool breeze in the warm sun while you hear the pleasant sounds such as the ocean or the birds chirping.

• Accept your situation – If things are out of your control, then you have to learn to accept your situation.  Don’t beat yourself up over situations you cannot control.  Save your energy for things you can control.

• Learn to relax – Think back to what things made you relax.  Revive that lost hobby that relaxed you.  Try some of the different techniques listed above.  Do not engage in destructive to relax such as smoking, drinking excessive alcohol, watching excessive amounts of TV, excessive eating or using drugs.

      

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