Carolyn Guilford, CNC Today we have more stress in our lives than ever before. Stress can be a factor in the quality of our lives and the state of our health. Research data shows that many diseases, especially heart attacks and cancers, and recovery are directly related to the level of stress in our lives, and how we manage stress.

Here are some easy ways to bring self-care to meet the stress: 1. Look at what is causing your stress. Take an inventory of all the things that just don't feel right in your life or that you know are causing you stress. 2. Ask for what you need. There is nothing like having a team. You must know that you can’t do everything yourself. Create a team of trusted friends and brainstorm ways to make all your goals do-able. A coach will help with the big picture and keep you honest about your efforts. Other team members might be a family doctor who listens to you, a financial planner, a massage therapist or an exercise partner. 3. Move into Plan B. Operate out of Plan A, as your basic selfcare plan while stress is under control. As stress goes into over-drive, you move into Plan B. It’s all about having thought it though in advance. Have your plan ready so you can bounce back. 4. Learn to relax. If you practice relaxation techniques (breathing, meditation, imagery, music) every day, then when stressful situations come up you'll have these same tools at your fingertips. 5. Keep a gratitude journal. Our attitude comes from our emotions and our emotions come from our thoughts. Thinking about what we're grateful for and what we're good at can keep us in a positive place. It's not about shying away from what's challenging you - it's about approaching life from a place of strength and happiness. 6. Get some creative fun. Learn to cook, write, sew, play an instrument, dance, or yoga. Find a creative outlet for yourself. Do something that just feels good. 7. Get rid of the clutter. Physical clutter can really impact on mental, emotional and physical health. Get rid of things that don't make you happy when you look at them. Organize your stuff. Find a place for everything and keep it there. 8. Take some deep breaths. This is the simplest and quickest way to relax yourself in a stressful situation. The minute you focus on your breathing it automatically gets slower and deeper. 9. Remember the child you were. Go back into your childhood. What were your hopes and dreams? Where did you want to go and do? Just close your eyes and go! Place yourself somewhere you've been or somewhere you'd like to be and dream. 10. Get your laugh on. Laugh out loud every day. Don't let stress get the best of you!

Select one of these strategies to apply each week to manage your stress. Then when you need instant stress relief, you’ll have your bag of tricks ready.

If you are tired of the suffering, and are interested in becoming a client of Health Restoration Consulting, we will help you get better, Please call today, or write to:

Carolyn Guilford, CNC

Health Restoration Consulting Post Office

Box 2814, Savannah, GA 31402 or Call 912 236-8987