How to Manage Stress & Anxiety

At some point, we all feel stress and anxiety--whether in dealing with a family function, trying to pay bills, finishing an important assignment at school or work, or dealing with peers and co-workers. Stress and anxiety are dangerous to our health. In some cases, symptoms may not be apparent until it is too late, causing a heart attack or stroke. Tension in the muscles, irritability and feeling rushed are all common signs of stress that can often be managed with the following activities.

Instructions

• 1

  Start the day off right by getting up on time. By scheduling a time to go to sleep every night, you cut back on the chances of oversleeping and running behind in the morning. The body uses sleep to repair and relax itself, so getting seven to eight hours of sleep is an ideal way to manage stress and anxiety.

• 2

  Exercise each day to relieve built up stress and tension in the muscles. Most people have muscle knots and tension in their neck and shoulders; exercising, getting the heart rate up and moving muscles around relieve pent up tension in the body.

• 3

  Set aside 15 to 20 minutes each day to do relaxation techniques such as Tai Chi, yoga, breathing exercises or meditation. By doing relaxation exercises, you can take your mind off negative thoughts and concentrate on positive energy.

• 4

  Walk away from situations that cause stress and anxiety. If there are personal issues causing conflict within your family and they don't involve you, politely state that you don't wish to be involved and walk away. Learn to be more assertive so that you can avoid situations that cause anxiety or stress.

• 5

  Manage time to accommodate projects or assignments. Do a little bit each day to keep on top of due dates so you are not stuck at the last minute doing a large load of work. Procrastination is a big cause of stress and anxiety, so schedule time each day to get things done.