Good morning and thank you for reading the Self Help Tips Blog!

Today I would like to share several ways to decrease the stress in our lives.

In today’s busy world, finding time to relieve stress can be a difficult task. From working a 9 to 5 job and getting the kids off to school, to attending soccer games or chaperoning a slumber party, our feet never seem to stay still. Some of us are responsible for taking care of our aging parents as well.

With this almost frantic pace, increased stress levels can be a natural result. Stress can impact many areas of life such as work, family and other relationships. Stress can cause one to experience irritability, impatience, and distractibility. For those of us who are constantly busy, stress management is a necessity. Here are eight tips to assist in living a more stress-free life:

1. Be determined, no matter what, to create time for yourself. For some of us, maybe it’s a soothing bubble bath at the end of the day. For others, it could be a quick trip to your favorite store. The activity really doesn’t matter, as long as you take some time for yourself.

2. Listen to calm, relaxing music on the way to work, while at work, and while going to sleep. Music has a way of calming and soothing the mind and body.

3. Practice deep abdominal breathing periodically throughout the day. Breathe in deeply through the nose pulling the belly button toward the spine, hold for a few seconds, and then slowly release. You may be pleasantly surprised at how this simple technique can result in a more relaxed body and mind. This can be done in any environment.

4. Take time to exercise. Exercise helps to increase self-esteem, decrease depression, increase concentration and energy, and gives one a greater sense of control over stress. Hitting the local gym is not always necessary. Taking a 15-minute walk around the neighborhood, taking walks on lunch breaks, taking the stairs instead of an elevator, and parking farther away from the building are examples of how you can squeeze in exercise during the day.

5. Eat Healthy. There are foods that promote calmness and foods that increase stress levels. Take some time to ask yourself if you are eating too much sugar and caffeine, and if you are getting enough protein. You can also evaluate if you are eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and staying away from refined and processed foods. Healthy eating is very important for all of us. Taking a look at diets and making the necessary changes can result in increased, optimal health.

6. Call a friend. For any busy person, it is always important in life to have at least one relationship where they can just vent and know that a listening ear and unconditional acceptance will be given.

7. Practice thinking calmly. Everyone has a favorite place that is peaceful, soothing, and calm. When stress levels increase, try to take a mental break and visualize that special place. Take note of the sights, sounds, and smells. It is important to continue to do this until relaxation is felt. Over time, you will notice that the stress you are experiencing will diminish and be more manageable.

8. Have a sense of humor. We are all familiar with the saying, "Laughter is the best medicine." This is so true. Be willing to laugh at personal mistakes. Watch a funny movie. Share a joke with a friend. In other words, lighten up. It will make such a difference.

Anyone can follow the above eight tips for a more stress-free life.  Start today!