How can I help myself to cope with stress?

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How can I help myself to cope with stress?

Studies have told us that the first step in tackling stress is to become aware that it is a problem for you. The next stage is to make a plan to take control of the causes and effects of stress. Here are some practical ways to take control of stress.

Holiday – try to plan at least one each year with a change in activities and surrounding.

Open up – if your relationship is part of the problem. Communication is very important.

Work – is that the problem? What are your options? Could you retrain? What aspects are stressful? Could you delegate? Could you get more support?

Try to concentrate on the present. Don’t dwell on the past or future worries.

Own up to yourself that you are feeling stressed – half the battle is admitting it!

Be realistic about what you can achieve. Don’t take too much on.

Eat a balanced diet. Eat slowly and sit down, allowing at least half an hour for each meal.

Action plans – try to write down the problems in your life that may be causing stress, and as many possible solutions as you can. Make a plan to deal with each problem.

Time management – plan your time, doing one thing at a time and building in breaks. Don’t make too many changes at once in your life.

Set priorities – if you could only do one thing, what would it be?

Talk things over with a friend or family member or someone else you can trust and share your feelings with.

Relaxation or leisure time each day is important. Try new ways to relax such as aromatherapy, reflexology or yoga. Relaxation exercises are described more fully below.

Exercise regularly – at least 20 minutes two or three times a week. This is excellent for stress control. Walking is good – appreciate the countryside.

Say no and don’t feel guilty.

Seek professional help if you have tried these things and still your stress is a problem.

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About the author: Larry Lewis
My name is Larry Lewis, Health & Wellness Life Coach, Founder of Healthy Lifestyles Living, contributor to the Huffington Post, recently featured in the Sunday Mail Newspaper and somebody who went from being an owner of a chain of gyms and fitness fanatic, to a visually impaired overweight and incredibly sick person. Read about my illness to wellness story.
One comment
  1. Mat says:

    Hello
    Great post – thank you. I would like to emphasize one thing – very often people stress over things they cannot change. This kind of behavior is one of the worst things you can do. The best thing to do is leave those things alone. It is wise to focus on positive and positive future instead.
    Best Regards
    Mat

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