Busting Stress Before Stress Busts You

Stress related health problems such as heart disease, the common cold, warts, ulcers, insomnia, and hypertension may be threatening your quality of life. The time to do something about it is now, you have to bust your stress before your stress busts you.

Below are a few stress busting techniques. Find the one that fits your needs or use a combination of two or more to de-stress and re-charge.

Breathing techniques can be used anywhere and any time. Breath in slowly to the count of five, hold to the count of three and exhale to the count of five. The ideal length of time for this technique is ten to fifteen minutes but if the boss has just hit you with a surprise meeting, doing ten slow deep breaths should get you through. Try deep breathing while on the way to work in the morning. Whether your are driving or on the bus you’ll find it’s a great way to start your day.

Music can be a great stress buster. Even though we may like hard rock and heavy metal music it has been proven that when we listen to it, it causes our muscles to tighten. There is a wide variety of tapes on the market today designed to soothe the mind and body. Select music that is 60 – 70 beats per minute or less using headphones when possible to block out outside noise. To boost your stress busting experience listen to music while doing deep breathing exercises.

It is often harder to sleep when we are stressed but sleep is even more important for our well being at this time. Stress often gets your mind spinning in all different directions and once it starts it is hard to switch off. Bust your stress by letting your brain unwind a few hours before bedtime. Avoid mentally challenging work and get help with kid’s homework out of the way early and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Watch TV, soak in a hot tub of bubbles or read a relaxing book. Leave worries and stress on the night stand and drift off for a good night’s sleep.

Exercise is a great stress buster for both mind and body. Exercise releases endorphins, the feel good hormone. When endorphins are released into your bloodstream, you have the feeling of well being. Have you ever noticed that people who are more physically fit have lower stress levels? Choose an activity that is fun because if it seems more like a chore, chances are you won’t keep exercising.

Find a hobby you enjoy. Having something else to focus on helps keep your mind in places other than your worries.

Bust stress by thinking positively. Instead of wondering what you can do about a problem, use positive thoughts and affirmations. Your subconscious mind listens to your conscious mind. If you tell it there is trouble around every corner, it will go to work making your affirmation become reality. Be careful how you think. Don’t let your occasional failures and frustrations rule your life. Set realistic goals and know that you can reach them.

Knowing how to deal with stress will keep you going during the worst of times letting the best of times take care of itself.