We all know what we should do to manage stress & be healthy.

Eat lots of fruits & vegetables.

Follow a regular, vigorous exercise program.

Sleep 8 hours a night.

Manage our anger through clear communication./LI

That's what we SHOULD do. But for those of us who's spare time numbers in minutes not hours -- here are a few more practical suggestions!

1. Start with the facts. -- Take a self-assessment & find out what your current stress level really is. You can take a free stress assessment here: http://www.stressless.com

2. Set aside a few minutes each day just for you. -- Even 10 minutes of solitude, guided imagery, or soothing music can be extremely therapeutic when you're feeling overwhelmed. If you're not sure how to fit even 10 minutes into your hectic schedule you may want to read "The Art of Doing Nothing: Simple Ways to Make Time for Yourself", available at:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0609600745/ideallivescom

3. Get Moving -- This is a familiar recommendation, but I'm not recommending an intensive fitness routine. Just try to fit in a short walk around your neighborhood. According to Mary H. Frakes, author of "MindWalks", walking can help relieve stress, increase motivation & even nourish your soul. At the very least it should ease your tense muscles & give you more energy.

4. Utilize Respite Care -- Respite care will allow you to have some quality time with your adult friends or your spouse. The National Respite Locator Service helps parents, caregivers, and professionals find respite services in their state and local area. The service is also useful when a family travels or must move to another state. You can learn more about the NRLS by visiting their website at:
http://www.chtop.com/locator.htm

5. Get rid of clutter in your home -- It's amazing how much better your day will go when you're moving around a well-organized space. Everyday tasks will be much less stressful if you get the organizational tools you need & USE them. In "Let Go of Clutter", organizing expert Harriet Schechter presents a fresh approach to overcoming the natural urge to accumulate objects and information. Dispensing equal doses of help, hope, and humor, she provides effective and realistic options for anyone who juggles too much stuff, too many decisions, and too little time.

6. Don't bottle up your emotions. -- Join a support group on-line or start your own local group. Starting a group may sound time consuming, but you can't beat face to face support! A wonderful resource that will walk you through the process of starting your own support group is available through the Parent to Parent web site at: http://www.parenttoparent.org/Sup-run-t.htm
Having someone "safe" to talk to when you're feeling frustrated is vital to your emotional health.

7. Make sleep a priority. -- Starting a hectic day un-rested is like starting a marathon with no training. A recipe for disaster! The National Sleep Foundation offers a quick quiz to see if you should be concerned about your sleep patterns as well as some practical tips on how you can get a better night's sleep.
http://www.sleepfoundation.org/howsyoursleep.html

8. Learn some simple relaxation techniques -- The web offers lots of options for learning relaxation techniques, either on-line or through books.

Check out these links to get you started:
a. http://www.aomc.org/stressreduction.html
b. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1572242140/ideallivescom

Remember, stress is inevitable. Keep stressful moments from ruining your day by being prepared with a few simple relaxation techniques.

9. Follow your nose. -- Aromotherapy is based on essential oils extracted from herbs & can be a comforting ritual when you're feeling stressed. There are many approaches to this relaxing technique. You can light scented candles, add scented oil to your bath water or a bowl of steaming water; or use one of the many commercial aromatherapy diffusers currently on the market. The important thing is to choose a scent that fills you with a sense of comfort & relaxation. To learn more about the art of aromotherapy visit: http://www.aromaweb.com/

10. If all else fails, take a playful approach. -- Ignore your "to-do" list & just spend some time laughing & playing with your kids. Absorb their youthful energy & see if you can re-connect with your own more relaxed & playful spirit.

Finding ways to manage your stress doesn't have to be complicated. Often, a few simple changes can make your days flow more smoothly & your spirit feel calmer. Here's to a world of less stress & more laughter!

© © 2001 Lisa Simmons. All Rights Reserved.