Techniques for Managing Stress

If you are among the millions of Americans who are stressed out, here are some tips to help you manage stress:

Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals. We know nutrition is important for good health and well-being, but it is also important to help manage stress. Limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, and cut back on sugar intake as well. Increase intake of fruits and vegetables at each meal and drink lots of water. Because it may be difficult to achieve good nutrition from diet alone, nutritional supplements are also important to help meet our nutritional requirements that may be compromised from the demands of stress.

Get adequate rest. Your body needs ample time to recover from stressful events, and proper rest and sleep is important to recharge your body. You need to rest as hard as you work.

Learn time management techniques. Learning to manage your time more effectively can help reduce stress. Create a daily plan that works with your schedule.

Exercise regularly. Exercise is a stress-reliever and one of the best approaches to managing stress. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, jogging or biking, increases heart rate and can help fight the effects of stress on our body. Stretching is also effective to relieve muscle tension.

Learn and practice relaxation techniques. Taking yoga, practicing meditation and even taking some deep breaths throughout the day can make a difference and help relax you.

Talk about your feelings. Express your feelings to others in a positive, respectful way. This may help you understand your feelings and cope with them better.

Learn to accept that there are things that are beyond your control. Learn to accept that you cannot make everything happen. Also, learn to say “no." Laugh often. It is important to keep a sense of humor.

Keep a positive attitude. A little optimism goes a long way.