We all encounter stress at some point or another. Though stress can have a negative affect on our heart it does not have to, because we can learn to manage it. Follow these three simple tips for a less stressful life.

Trying to Avoid the Unavoidable

1. While it is true that we need human interaction, it is perfectly okay to avoid people who stress you out. If someone consistently causes stress in your life and you can not turn the tide in the relationship, limit the amount of time that you spend with that person or end the relationship completely. Your well-being is more important than any relationship that can add stress to your life.

2. Though this can be a difficult thing to do, try to look at the big picture. Take perspective of the stressful situation. Ask yourself how important it will be in the long run. Will it matter in a month? Six months? A year? Is it really worth getting flustered over? If the answer is no, focus your time and energy in a more positive direction.

3. Share your feelings with those you trust. Talk to a trusted friend face-to-face or make an appointment to speak with a therapist or counselor. The very act of expressing what you are going through can be very cathartic, even if there is nothing that you can do to alter the stressful situation. Remember that opening up about how you feel truly is a sign of strength and not weakness. Who knows? The person that you speak to may have experienced your exact situation and can offer sage advice.

All-in-all know that there are both negative and positive ways to cope with stress. First, here are the negative ways:

• Smoking;

• Drinking too much;

• Overeating or undereating;

• Procrastinating;

• Zoning out for hours in front of the TV or computer;

• Withdrawing from friends, family and activities;

• Using pills or drugs to relax;

• Sleeping too much;

• Filling up every minute of the day to avoid facing problems;

• Taking out your stress on others (lashing out, angry outbursts and physical violence);

• Spending large sums of money in an attempt to feel better.

And, now for the positive ways to avoid certain stressors. Here goes:

• Go for a walk;

• Spend time in nature;

• Call a good friend;

• Curl up with a good book;

• Write in your journal;

• Take a long hot bath;

• Light scented candles;

• Play with a pet;

• Get a massage;

• Listen to music;

• Watch a comedy;

• Work in your garden;

• Savor a warm cup of coffee or tea;

• Sweat out tension with a good workout.

Tackling the Big Issue

Stress is unavoidable, however, at least there are ways in which you can manage stress. Thank goodness for that! Can you think of additional ways to manage stress?

Web Links:

http://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-management.htm

-Kimberly Williams