Kelly’s Korner – Stress Tips

Are you Stressed out?  In a good way?  In a bad way?  There are forms of stress that are good and bad...but the bad...you NEED to live without. Stress doesn't exist...It is created from within. So lets get rid of your stress by following these stress free tips:

SAY NO TO CAFFEINE, NICOTINE, ALCOHOL, AND SUGAR

When your body is hydrated it does a better job at dealing with stress. Caffeine, nicotine and alcohol will all dehydrate.  Try to exchange your coffee and caffeine intake with:

• Herbal teas
• Water
• Diluted fruit juices

GET MOVING

When I don't exercise, my body aches...I get restless legs, and I can't sleep well. Anytime I just go for a walk, or get in a really good workout, I usually feel refreshed during the day, and can sleep better at night. It also always seems to improve my blood pressure, so keep on moving.

SLEEP SLEEP SLEEP.....ZZZZZZZZZZZ

A lack of sleep can cause stress. You should try to relax before laying down, and then really try to get a good nights sleep.  Sometimes stressful thoughts can keep us up all night long.  Doing relaxing activities before bed can help you get the really good rest that you need.  Take a warm bath...read...stop working and doing demanding chores around the house when you're trying to relax.

LEARN TO SAY NO

I have a huge problem with this. I always feel obligated to not hurt people's feelings, and even if I say NO the first time, they keep coming back for a yes. ADVICE: Stay with No if you said it the first time. Changing your mind makes you look wishy washy, even if you are simply trying to be kind.

SHORTEN YOUR TO-DO LIST

We can cause ourselves unnecessary stress by trying to accompish too much in a day.  Shorten the list to 3 or 4 items and cross them off as they are completed. It's better to see a list of things getting accomplished, rather than looking at an endless list of activities that no one could complete in a 24 hour period.

For more info on dealing with stress, click HERE.