Seven Effective Tips on Managing Stress

Stress can take its toll on an individual's life. It is not uncommon to hear of people who self-destruct mainly because of stress. Therefore, managing stress is a very important skill that you need to have if you don't want stress to be controlling the way you live your life.

Here are some very practical but effective tips on managing stress. Take note of them. Always keep them in mind. But most importantly, apply them.

1)     Exercise regularly.

The effects of stress can be greatly reduced and prevented by regular physical activity. Just 30 minutes of exercise a day can do wonders not only to your stress problems but to your health as well. A lot of people recommend aerobic exercises in dealing with stress. So it's probably better if you start out with it first.

2)    Watch your diet and make sure that it is healthy.

Under-nourished bodies are more susceptible to stress. On the other hand, well-nourished and healthy bodies can easily cope with the pressures and effects of stress. So always start your day with a healthy breakfast and follow it up with nutritious meals all through out the day.

3)    Stay away from drugs, cigarettes and alcohol as much as possible.

You may think that taking these substances will take your stress away but the truth is they will only make it worse. Yes, drugs, alcohol and cigarettes give relief but it's very temporary. A lot of people actually resort to them in managing stress issues but they will backfire in the long run. The less vices you have, the better you will be.

4)    Get enough rest and sleep.

Being tired all the time and lacking sleep are stress triggers. What's worse is that when you haven't rested or slept enough, your body is weak so it is further more susceptible to succumbing to the pressures of stress.

5)    Set aside relaxation time for yourself.

Just a simple act of doing something relaxing can drive all the stress away. Watch a comedy movie, listen to upbeat songs, listen to relaxation music, do yoga, answer a crossword puzzle, take the dog for a walk, etc...

6)    Find a hobby.

Managing stress is often about doing things that take your mind away from things that stress you out like work. Why don't you take a painting class, join a photography club, do some origami, or whatever it is that interests you. Something that you are very passionate about.

7)     Talk to someone.

Someone you trust and someone who trusts you. It could be a friend, a relative, a family member or a psychiatrist. Tell him what you're going through. Tell him the things that stress you out. Just the mere act of talking about your problems eases and relieves the effects it's causing you.

Managing stress is not easy but it is not that too difficult either. As long as you put your mind into it and use methods that you are comfortable with, controlling stress can be quite simple.

The tips enumerated above would be a very good start.

Author - Euanne Lynne