S0DHI
28th September 2010, 03:24 PM
There are many effective ways to reduce stress:
• Exercise. Walk with a friend, join a yoga class, bike, hike -- whatever you enjoy, exercise is a great way to reduce stress and stay healthy.
• Talk. Share your concerns with a family member, good friend, healthcare professional, or counselor.
• Eat well. Although eating chocolate may soothe stress in the short run, overindulgence leads to its own set of problems! A healthier strategy is to eat three nutritious meals daily, with healthy snacks, including fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and yogurt.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Herbal tea (iced, if hot flashes are bothersome) provides a soothing alternative to caffeinated drinks. Although alcohol may make you feel drowsy and relaxed, it has been shown to interfere with sleep quality. And, the potential for alcohol abuse and other health risks makes it a poor option for stress reduction.
• Sleep. Adequate sleep is crucial for alert functioning during the waking hours. Most adults require between 6 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Try to determine your sleep needs and then get as much as you need!
• Relax. Participate in a “mind-body” program (if available in your community), or learn the techniques of deep breathing, positive thinking, and meditation through books and CDs.
• Pamper. Treat yourself to a massage, manicure, or soothing bath. Enjoy a good book, music, or a favorite hobby. Find a creative outlet by enrolling in an art or music program.
• Enjoy. And don't forget to laugh and smile at every opportunity!
• Exercise. Walk with a friend, join a yoga class, bike, hike -- whatever you enjoy, exercise is a great way to reduce stress and stay healthy.
• Talk. Share your concerns with a family member, good friend, healthcare professional, or counselor.
• Eat well. Although eating chocolate may soothe stress in the short run, overindulgence leads to its own set of problems! A healthier strategy is to eat three nutritious meals daily, with healthy snacks, including fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and yogurt.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Herbal tea (iced, if hot flashes are bothersome) provides a soothing alternative to caffeinated drinks. Although alcohol may make you feel drowsy and relaxed, it has been shown to interfere with sleep quality. And, the potential for alcohol abuse and other health risks makes it a poor option for stress reduction.
• Sleep. Adequate sleep is crucial for alert functioning during the waking hours. Most adults require between 6 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Try to determine your sleep needs and then get as much as you need!
• Relax. Participate in a “mind-body” program (if available in your community), or learn the techniques of deep breathing, positive thinking, and meditation through books and CDs.
• Pamper. Treat yourself to a massage, manicure, or soothing bath. Enjoy a good book, music, or a favorite hobby. Find a creative outlet by enrolling in an art or music program.
• Enjoy. And don't forget to laugh and smile at every opportunity!