Are you worried about anything today? Maybe it is the current economic and political climate or a wayward child. Have you lost your job or home? Perhaps you are grieving over the death of a parent, dealing with a painful divorce, or plagued with health concerns. At one time or another, every one of us experiences periods of loneliness and despair. Maybe as you read this now you are feeling overwhelmed by the challenges in your life. First, let me remind you that you are not alone. Furthermore, there are many healthy things you can do, right now, to minimize your stress levels.

After all, you cannot allow stress to steal your happiness and keep you from enjoying a fulfilling life! But, if you do not make a conscious effort to manage stress in a way that is healthy, it is likely that excessive worry, irritability, insomnia, and fatigue will be your constant companions.

The good news is that if you follow my stress-busting suggestions below, you will keep several steps ahead of the “stress mess.”

1. Simplify your life by cutting out needless stress. If you are overextended, learn to say “NO” to unnecessary responsibilities.
2. Make sure you are getting enough sleep…most people do not. If you are someone who has trouble falling asleep, a few adjustments in your evening routine may help. For example, avoid caffeine and exercise later in the day. Also, keep your bedtime consistent each night, and avoid altering your weekend sleep schedule more than an hour.
3. Eat well! In addition to choosing healthy foods, make mealtimes a pleasant social encounter with your family. Include your loved ones in meal planning, table setting, and cooking. There is wisdom in the saying, “a family that eats together, stays together.”
4. Exercise – A good workout can trigger chemical reactions in your body that enhance your physical and emotional well-being. Additionally, staying fit will help you combat the negative effects of stress.
5. Have FUN – Keep a good balance of work and play – including time spent alone and enjoying group activities.
6. Maintain a healthy support system. Make sure you carve out time in your schedule to be with the ones you love. If you live alone and struggle with a disease or other difficult circumstances, join a support group. You may also find church fellowship uplifting during lonely and stressful times.
7. Meditate or pray – Find ways to focus your energy on a meaning or a purpose beyond your everyday circumstances.
8. Keep your sense of humor – Laughter releases tension!
9. Be assertive and share your feelings – Bottling up negative emotions and experiences can lead to unhealthy behaviors and illnesses.
10. Do something creative – Indulge in enjoyable hobbies – such as painting, gardening, dancing, blogging, or singing in a choir.
11. Practice gratitude while serving others. Assisting those in need helps you appreciate the things you often take for granted.
12. Pamper yourself. Due to our struggling economy, many spas are now offering great deals on relaxing massages, footbaths, and other indulgences.

Until next time, remember that less stress means more success!

Be well,

Dr. Janet

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