How to Practice Stress Management Techniques

Managing stress is important for us to maintain a healthy body and mind. Stress has been called the "silent killer." Stress and the accompying effects can make us sick causing bodily symptoms such as headaches, backaches, constipation, diarrhea, tiredness, sleep disturbances and much more. Stress also affects our thoughts and feelings causing depression, sadness, resentment, worry, and other problems. Some behaviors are a direct result of stress in our lives. Such as overeating, drinking to excess, abusing drugs, having anger outbursts, sleeping too much or too little,and overindulging in television to name a few.Although stress is a part of our daily lives because it comes from external and internal sources; there are numerous techniques to manage and reduce the stress in our lives and get relief from it.

1. Step 1
   Relaxation needs to be a priority when you are trying to learn new stress management techniques. Count to ten if you feel yourself stressing out. Take a few deep breaths. Take a one minute mini-vacation.Visualize a place where you would like to be at the moment;such as the beach or at home in your recliner.
   
2. Step 2
   Exercise daily to help manage stress. You can walk as little as 20 minutes per day and reap great benefits. Play tag or ball with your kids, take your dog for a walk, walk upstairs instead of taking the elevator, park farther away at the store. Do an exercise DVD, get the whole family involved.
   
3. Step 3
    
   Eating properly is important. Focus on cutting back on white sugar,salt and the caffine found in soft drinks, coffee, and tea.Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains. Drink plenty of water. Try to drink 6-8 glasses per day. Add some lemon or try no calorie flavored water.
   
4. Step 4
   Sleep well. Make sure you get the required 7-8 hours of rest each night. Restrict the use of caffine and alcohol before bedtime. Avoid television or video games later in the evening. Try to do something that will relax you such as reading or a hobby.
   
5. Step 5
   Time managment is important. Make a to-do list and prioritize your day. Don't overcommit your time. Be sure to say no to new projects when you are feeling overwelmed. Put yourself first for a portion of each day (even if its a short 15 minutes).
   
6. Step 6
   Volunteer your time, talents, or money to help others for a cause that is important to you. When we help others it helps us count our blessings and realize what we have. We tend to feel good about ourselves when we enhance others lives.
   
7. Step 7
   Self-talk is important. If you wouldn't say something to a friend don't say it to yourself. Don't make negetive comments berating yourself. Be your own best friend. Don't be afraid to give yourself a pat on the back or a reward for a job well done.
   
8. Step 8
   Develope a new hobby or interest. Take time to enjoy life and have some fun. Take a class or learn a new skill. Being creative and learning something new gives you new energy and life.
   
9. Step 9
   Surround yourself with caring and supportive family and friends. Hire a Life Coach to help you move forward and improve your life by encouraging you to grow. Find people you can talk with openly and honestly to share the joys and burdens of everyday living. Spend time with people who build you up and encourage you. Spend less time with people who tear you down and who choose to be negetive.
   

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