Healthy Ways To Cope With Stress

A small amount of stress is normal. Stress can be good in certain circumstances. It can help you face threats and act quickly in emergency, as well as sharpen your abilities & help you perform better. However too much stress especially on a daily basis can harm you physically, mentally and psychologically.

Some of the symptoms of too much stress include tiredness, poor concentration, difficulty in making decisions, headaches, sweating, nervousness, eating and sleeping problems, abdominal cramps, mood swings, irritability, anger, anxiety, worry, fear and depression, high blood pressure, heart disease and possible stroke.

People respond differently to stress, but there are common things you can do to lessen the amount of stress in your daily life.

1. Get plenty of sleep. Have a regular sleep schedule. When you rested you have more energy to deal with stressful events.

2. Be physically active. Regular exercise improves mood, relieves stress and makes you healthier.

3. Breathe. Practicing deep breathing will help you reduce anxiety and thus reduction of stress. Yoga and meditation are also good techniques that can help relieve stress.

4. Talk or write about it. Talking to friends or family member or keeping "stress journal" will help you put problem in perspective as well as help you identify the triggers that are the root of stress effecting you.

5. Make time for yourself. Do something you enjoy. Any activities that you enjoy will also help you minimize stress. This can be anything from reading a book, sketching or just taking a short walk around the block.

6. Keep it simple. Set realistic goals and expectations. Take small steps towards your goals. Make your goals measurable and achievable to stay motivated.

7. Laugh it off. Laughter has stress relieving benefits. Humor helps you see obstacles as challenges and opportunities to grow rather than threats.

8. Use visualization. The power of positive thoughts and images can reduce the tide of anxiety and stress. Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a peaceful environment. It can be secluded beach or a place from your childhood where you felt at peace. Now let all of your senses experience the joy of this place and know that it's there when you need it, especially in times of stress.