HEALTH TIPS: 15 WAYS TO REDUCE STRESS IN YOUR LIFE

Just about everyone has some degree of stress in their life. If ignored stress can lead to a series of medical, emotional, and psychological problems. But by following certain techniques, you can very easily manage your stress.

Stress is defined as a feeling which results from excessive pressures in life. This feeling is quite unpleasant. If not managed, stress can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, depression, substance abuse, and a host of other problems. Here are some tipe to help you manage the stress in your life:

1. EXERCISE: Stay physically active by getting at least 20 minutes of exercise every day. Engaging in an intense workout can be a great way to channel frustrations.

2. GET ORGANIZED: In many cases, the mere sight of a dirty or cluttered room or office can make a person feel anxious or overwhelmed. Add on a few forgotten or overdue tasks, and a person could really be sent over the edge. Recycle or throw away old papers and junk. Make "to do" lists and write important dates down.

3. LEARN HOW TO RELAX: When you feel tense, take in 10 slow breaths-in through the nose and out through the mouth. Take time out everyday for meditation, prayer, or quiet contemplation.

4. REST: Get at least 8 hours of sleep every day.

5. KEEP A POSITIVE ATTITUDE: Being negative will not only make you feel more stressed, but it will also alienate loved ones and colleagues. Take time out to see the positive side of a situation. Recognize thoughts and replace them with positive ones. Focus on solutions instead of problems.

6. DO NOT ENGAGE IN ADDICTIVE BEHAVIOR: Abusing food, drugs, alcohol, sex, gambling, or any other vice will only make things worse. If you are having a problme with addiction, there are many programs available to help you kick your habit.

7. HAVE FUN EVERY ONCE IN AWHILE: Make time for activities that you find enjoyable.

8. CONFIDE IN FRIENDS AND FAMILY: Talk to people who support you. Having people you can vent your frustrations with can be a huge relief. Just make sure you're there for them as well.

9. STOP PROCRASTINATING: Many people attempt to manage the stress in their life by simply avoiding all tasks that they find unpleasant. This almost always backfires because the more things the procrastinator puts off, the more overwhelmed they get by their ever-growing list of demands. Empower yourself by addressing issues rather than avoiding them.

10. LEARN HOW TO SAY "NO": Avoid overcommitting yourself to too many activities or obligations. When you spread yourself too thin, not only do you raise your stress level a great deal, but also you fail to allow yourself the proper time and energy to give any one project the dedication it deserves. Do not allow friends, family, coworkers, or others to guilt trip you into taking on more than you can handle.

11. DO NOT FALL INTO THE TRAP OF PERFECTIONISM: Focus on trying to do your very best instead of trying to be perfect. Don't be so hard on yourself.

12. HAVE A SENSE OF HUMOR: Don't take yourself too seriously. Try to laugh at least once a day.

13. DISSOCIATE YOURSELF FROM TOXIC PEOPLE: Phase out negative people from your life. End all unhealthy or abusive relationships. This will not be easy, but it is key to having self respect and peace of mind in the long run.

14. TELL PEOPLE WHEN AND WHY YOU ARE UPSET WITH THEM: Keeping your feelings to yourself will only prolong your stress and anger. Communicate your needs, wants, and expectations with other.

15. GET HELP: If you still find yourself unable to manage the stress in your life and you are increasingly angry, depressed, or anxious, it may be time to seek outside help. Many people find talking to a trained therapist, psychologist, or spiritual counselor to be very beneficial. If you are finding it harder and harder to cope, seek help right away.

source: www.newsolio.com