8 Simple Ways to Alleviate Stress

Are you having one of those days?  There is a way to help you through it.

Stress is one of the things that we all experience but knowing how to manage stress is the key to a happier and healthier life.  Stress can be caused by a number of things but some of the major stress factors occur around #work, financial problems, relationships, health issues, a move and caring for family members.  

Not all stress is bad. When stress is working properly it can help us to stay #focused and react quickly to protect us from danger. But when ignored and not handled in the proper manner, excessive stress can lead to various health issues including weight gain, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, alzheimer’s disease, depression and even headaches. 

There are some simple ways to reduce stress when we are put in a difficult situation. 

1. #Time: Managing your time is a huge stress reliever. We often experience stress when we are crunched for time. We leave things that we don't really want to do until the last minute, ultimately causing more stress. Prioritize and tackle the most unpleasant tasks first to prevent stress. 

2. #Communicate: Do you take the time to talk about a situation when you are annoyed? Learn to open up and share your point of view. Honest communication can sometimes alleviate the situation.

3. Walk away and breathe: Stepping away from the situation and taking a few deep breaths will help you to reflect on the issue differently and release the intensity of the moment.

4. Know your Limits: Understand what you truly can handle.  Learn to say no. Saying yes to something you really don't care to do, is not always the best answer. 

5. #Exercise: Going for a run, a walk, to the gym or any form of exercise will release the anger, 20 minutes is all you need to make a difference. 

6. Friends, family and laughter: Spending time with loved ones and laughing can help you to take your mind off the issue. Remember, laughter is the best medicine.

7. #Meditation: Many studies have proven that meditation and quiet time, even just 15 minutes a day, will relieve your stress.

8. Sleeping: Stress is often escalated when you are tired. Sleeping will restore and energize you, allowing you to look at the situation with a new lens.

To handle stress, it is important to understand your limits. One's ability to tolerate stress depends on a number of things, such as the quality of your relationships, your attitude, self control and knowledge of the situation at hand.  Take the time to #acknowledge your level of stress and the ability to release it. If you have some other ways to relieve your stress, share your comments below.

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