Don’t Stress, Be Happy!

April is National Stress Awareness Month

What is stress? We hear people talk about stress all the time. We say we’re “stressed-out”, but many of us may not know what stress really is or how much damage it can actually do to our health. The term 'stress' refers to the response you have when facing circumstances that force you to act, change, or adjust in some way to maintain your footing, or to keep things balanced.

Here are 5 tips that, when observed, will help you take charge and beat the stress

• Focus on Your Health —You are not healthy when you’re constantly tired and rundown. Make an annual physical check-up with your doctor. Being proactive and “in the know” about your health are keys to feeling good and reducing stress.
• Learn to Relax — Take a moment to just breathe, meditate, pray, etc. Take a breath and think about something positive, peaceful and soothing. Have a morning “quiet time” just for you. It’s a perfect way to break the cycle of task-related stresses.
• Get Some Exercise — When you’re stressed, exercise may be the last thing you feel like doing. However, helping your body relieve stress through planned exercise will improve your stamina, help you feel good about yourself, and actually help avoid exhaustion in the long run. You’ll sleep better, too!
• Talk to Your Inner Self — Keep a journal or talk to yourself while driving. It doesn’t matter if the conversation is one-sided and reflective. It just matters that you take the time to think about your experiences and what you’re grateful for. You’ll be amazed at how getting things out and remembering your blessings will lighten your spirit.
• Smile — Seriously, just smile. It will help. It’s a fact. You can’t hold a negative thought with a genuine smile on your face. Very few things can reduce stress better than a funny moment and the smile it brings. Laughter is, after all, the best medicine.