1. Sleep is Essential
This is a big one. It's hard to relax if you're not getting enough sleep at night. It's terribly stressful to drag yourself through the next day at work or caring for your family without enough rest. Do what you need to do to make sure you get at least 7 hours of sleep each night. If your favorite TV show comes on at 10:00 p.m., record it for later. Ask your roommates or family to respect your sleep time by turning down the loud music and video games.
2. Physical Activity is a Potent De-Stressor
Almost any kind of physical activity will help reduce your stress level. You could take a few short walks each day to get some fresh air, ramp it up in a cardio-kickboxing class at the gym after work, or chill at yoga after dinner. Do what you like, but move. No one knows exactly why, but exercise is a powerful antidote to stress.
3. Most of Us Need to Be Involved in Something Outside of Ourselves
What sounds healthier? Sitting around home after work, brooding about your evil boss and her plans for total world domination, or seeing good friends for dinner? Or coaching your kid's softball team? Or attending that lecture on Italian Renaissance painting? How about visiting that lively aunt you haven't seen in awhile? Get it? You can't think about the evil boss as often or intensely if you're chatting up your new neighbor. Try hard to get your head in a different place as often as possible. Doing for others is a good start.
4. It's Ok to Say No Sometimes
We all have priorities. We know we need to organize our time and resources to complete work assignments and meet family and social obligations. Sometimes this means taking a pass on a volunteer or social commitment. You can't be all things to all people all the time. Sometimes the answer to a request from a friend, family member, or organization is "No, not this time. Please ask me again some other time." Don't spend your own capital. And remember the rule about 7 hours of sleep nightly.
5. Deep Breathing Helps Lots of People Reduce Stress
Try deep breathing several times a day to help you relax. Sit in a comfortable chair or lie down. Put your hands on your stomach. Count 1-2-3-4 slowly as you inhale through your nose. At the same time, feel your stomach rise. Hold for one second. Now slowly count 1-2-3-4 as you exhale through your mouth. It's ok to make a low whistling sound as you exhale. Feel your stomach fall. Repeat several times.
You can also try yoga, tai-chi, or meditation.
