#207: Five Ways to Beat Stress

Stress is a silent, ever-present killer.

In our lives there are many things we can control and a great many things we can not. The things we can control are usually not even thought of in the course of a day. The things we can’t control, are, hopefully, recognized and compensated for when they arise.

Here are some easy ways to defeat stress.

EATING RIGHT

Don't simply drive into a fast food joint and order a greasy burger and greasy fries and then wonder why you don’t feel all that well. This not feeling well just adds more stress. Follow SP and other guidelines that call for fruits, vegetables and other healthy foods. Proper eating will provide the fuel needed to stave off fatigue that adds to feelings of being stressed and overwhelmed.

MAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF

Don't be a workaholic. When you're done with work, leave. Take a walk by yourself, spend quiet time relaxing reading or with a hot bath. Enjoy the peace and replenish your soul.

ON YOUR DAYS OFF

Forget work and forget not working out. It's a day off for a reason. To recuperate from the week till that point. You need time to decompress and unwind. Enjoy being around the wife or husband and kids or enjoy doing something you like.

DEVELOP HOBBIES

It doesn't matter what they are -- skiing, golf, hunting, fishing, bowling, knitting, painting -- whatever. Hobbies are a great way to get rid of anxiety and stress. You’re doing something you like and your mind is off your daily obligations and responsibilities. Try not to make your hobby work related.

MAKE FRIENDS WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT CO-WORKERS.

You can’t get two or more co-workers together for more than five seconds without the conversation turning to work. With this in mind, meet people from other professions to network or join groups that have a common interest -- sports, hobbies, etc.

Stress has indeed been called a silent killer. But it needn't be if we take care of ourselves and follow these five simple rules to help balance work, home and play.