Managing Stress

Not all stress is bad. In fact, we probably need some stress in our lives to keep us on our toes. Many activities are worth doing even if they are stressful, such as paying bills or talking out an upsetting problem. It is often not the stressors themselves that are the problem but how you cope with them.

Relaxation Techniques

Many of us are under a good deal of stress at one time or another. Being sick may add further stress. One of the easiest ways to reduce the bad effects of stress is to learn how to relax-both physically and mentally. It may help you to practice something called deep relaxation for at least a month. If you feel better, you may want to make it a habit. A deep sense of relaxation can be achieved in many ways.

Here is one simple method that may help you relax.

• Start by finding a quiet place where you won't be disturbed for 20 minutes or so. You may want to put a sign on the door to let people know that you do not want to be disturbed, or go outside for a few minutes
• Sit in a comfortable position with your feet on the floor or lie down. Close your eyes
• Imagine yourself in a peaceful place, such as lying on the beach, walking in the mountains, or floating in clouds. Hold the scene in your mind
• Focus on breathing slowly and deeply
• Each time you exhale, repeat a calming word or phrase like "relax, let go." You may use a religious or spiritual phrase or a number
• Continue the slow breathing for about 10 minutes

Practice your relaxation technique at least once a day for the first week. Try to spend 15 to 20 minutes relaxing. After the first week, you may choose to increase it to three or more times a day. But don't put yourself under pressure to find time to relax. If you miss a session or two, that's okay.

Learning to relax will help you reduce the effects of stress and make you feel better. Take your time, keep at it, and the results will follow.