Ten Effective Techniques for Managing Stress

As a licensed mental health counselor, I often meet with people who are struggling with stress-related problems. Stress shows itself very differently from person to person. When under an inordinate amount of stress, one might eat too much, drink too much, break out in hives, or be moody. Another might be sarcastic, take on a pessimistic view, or experience increased episodes of crying. Each of us has our own ways of managing stress. Some popular and well-researched ways that I and millions of others have used to combat stress are:

1. Practice yoga. If you have ever tried yoga, you know what I am talking about. A serene and peaceful way to meditate and exercise at the same time, yoga improves not only your body but your mind as well.

2. Journal feelings. Writing down how you feel serves as a vehicle to express feelings, literally "getting them out" rather than holding them in. Journaling allows opportunity to process and explore what it is you are actually feeling and why. Reading it later increases your insight into the problem and your feelings. Incredibly therapeutic, journaling is one of the simplest and cheapest ways to manage stress.

3. Build some alone time in to your day. Giving to yourself is very important when you are battling stressful times. In addition, doing so is acknowledgment you are worthy of time and effort. Taking this step ignites your capacity to cope.

4. Go for a walk. Nothing gets those endorphins going like a nice, long walk. Endorphins are those "feel good" chemicals that your body releases after energetic exercise. Plus, while walking, you can explore solutions for whatever is stressing you out. Provided your doctor says it's okay, simply put one foot in front of the other and go.

5. Watch your alcohol and other drug intake. Some people who use substances have a tendency to overuse when experiencing stressful periods. So, be vigilant about your substance use. Whether it's nicotine, prescription medicines, alcohol, or other drugs, monitor it closely. Use prescription drugs only as prescribed.

6. Don't skip doctors' appointments. Chronic health problems may bubble up and erupt during stressful times. Therefore, be sure you follow through with all doctors' appointments or schedule necessary consultations when you are struggling with stress. It goes without saying that it's integral to heed the doctor's advice.

7. Listen to music. Music therapists have long touted the positive effects of listening to music. Depending on the songs, it can energize or relax you. When you're driving in the car, just sing it out, right along with your iPod or radio tunes. By the time you reach your destination, you just might be all better.

8. Use imagery to relax. Close your eyes. Now, imagine your special place--the beach, the big house you grew up in, that mountain you climbed. What does it look like--the surroundings and the colors? What does it smell like? Are there gentle breezes blowing? Is the sun shining? Painting a picture in your mind of a favorite location is a fantastic way to escape all things stressful. Just let your mind go there. Allow yourself 10 to 30 minutes to lie down or sit in a comfortable chair with your eyes closed and pay your special place a visit.

9. Recharge your batteries. Yes, go play. Do something you enjoy. The possibilities here are limitless: play a sport, invite a friend to go bowling, curl up with that novel of yours. Some people might choose activities like going out to dinner or taking a swim. Nothing discharges stress like having fun.

10. Don't forget to laugh. Get together with friends who make you giggle. Or watch some of your favorite sit-coms on television. Some of us have those old, stand-by movies that really tickle the funny bone. Let loose and laugh out loud! It is cleansing to just let go and giggle.

A multitude of effective stress management techniques are available. Review this list and select a couple of simple ways that you can ease the pressure and stress that occasionally take over your life. Now, repeat after me, "I will feel better."