Stress Management - 5 Steps to Successfully Manage Stress

Stress is a common problem that many people face in hectic, fast paced lives. It can affect productivity and feelings of fulfillment and satisfaction. In extreme cases, it can become overwhelming or begin to manifest in physical illnesses or depression. It is important to reduce the effects of stress whenever possible. Here are 5 steps to successfully manage stress in your life:

1. Check your diet. Make sure you are eating healthy foods such a fresh produce, lean protein sources, and whole grains. Sometimes stress impacts appetite, either causing a decrease or an increase in appetite. If your appetite is suffering, try carrying around healthy snacks and eating them in small portions throughout the day. If you tend to eat too much as a reaction to stress, try setting a time at the end of the day when you will stop eating. Also, be sure you are not eating when you are distracted, like when watching television.

2. Try supplementation to support your physical health. Like your diet, supplements can help increase your physical health, which helps support your emotional health. A food based multivitamin is a good start - these are generally utilized better by the body than non food based brands. If you don't eat much food that is calcium rich, add this as well. Fish oil is excellent for a variety of physical benefits, including better brain health and cardiovascular benefit. L-Theanine can help alleviate feelings of anxiety, and 5 HTP (hydroxytryptophan) can help regulate mood. It is advisable to check with your health care provider when trying a new supplement.

3. Make sure to start exercising. Check with your doctor to determine the most appropriate level of activity. Cardiovascular exercise is excellent, as it encourages the release of endorphins which help elevate mood and release physical stress. Try to have a regular schedule, ideally 45 minutes about 5 times a week. Any exercise is beneficial, however.

4. Coaching or counseling. Depending upon the severity of your stress and whether there are other accompanying issues, you may benefit from getting some therapy or coaching to help you learn how to prioritize, delegate, manage, and reduce stress.

5. Take some time out each day just for you. Make a list of several things you really enjoy doing. Every day, pick one thing off the list and do it for yourself. Once you finish the list, create a new one and keep on going. It is a wonderful habit to establish.

Autor: Shannon E Cook Shannon E Cook
Level: Platinum
Shannon Cook became inspired to coach and mentor women in relationships, particularly psychologically abusive relationships, after her own personal journey through the process. Using her ... ...

Are you interested in addressing your life challenges from a holistic standpoint, assessing the physical, emotional, and relationship components?

For a free copy of my ebook, "Natural Methods To Fight Depression", click here: http://www.stoptoxicrelationships.com/gifts-naturalmethodstofightdepression.html

Shannon Cook is a personal coach and resource guide who has written a number of informative articles and ebooks on the topic of toxic relationships and holistic personal growth, including physical, emotional and relationship health.

Added: February 16, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/