Stress is pressure from external circumstances that can cause internal tensions. We live and work in a state of too much to do and not enough time. Not surprisingly, it has been found that much illness is related to unrelieved stress.
If you are experiencing stress symptoms, you need to reduce the stress in your life and/or improve your ability to manage it. Here are several ways to help you reduce your stress level.
Deal with the Cause
If tension comes from your relationship with a person, talk out your differences. If tension comes from an unfinished task, find a way to get the responsibility completed.
Learn to Pace Yourself
It’s not humanly possible to be in high gear all the time. When you have a number of must-do tasks, deal with them one at a time, in order of their urgency, while setting aside all the rest for the time being. Take time out for a small reward once you’ve reached a goal.
Escape for a While
Sometimes, it helps to escape from life’s tension for a while: try losing yourself in a movie, a book, a game or a brief trip from a change of scene. Plan to do something you enjoy as part of a set routine.
Realize Your Limits and Plan Around Them
Don’t take on more than you can handle. Less stress is caused, in the long run, by turning away tasks than by leaving work unfinished.
Work Off Your Anger
If you feel like lashing out at someone who has provoked you, try holding off that impulse for a while. Channel your pent up energy into some physical activity, such as working out or physically demanding DIY projects.
Give In Occasionally
If you get into frequent quarrels with people, ask yourself “Is this really worth fighting for?” Cooperation can be as contagious as competition and criticism.
Eat Sensibly and Get Plenty of Rest
When your body is run down from lack of food or sleep a lot of things look worse than they really are and your ability to cope with them is also reduced.
Don’t Try to be Perfect
Give the best of your effort and ability but don’t beat up on yourself if you can’t achieve the impossible. Also, give yourself a pat on the back for the things you do well.
Plan for Change
Coping with the unexpected is a great source of stress; Try to accept that change is inevitable. Whenever possible, plan to avoid too many known changes coming at the same time.
Develop a Positive and Outgoing Disposition
Don’t concentrate on failure. Positive emotions help fight stress while negative ones intensify it. Even smiling relieves stress.
Talk Out Your Troubles
Talk your problems over with a level-headed person you can trust. It can release pressure, help you see worries more objectively and figure out ways to handle the problem.