Healthy ways to relieve stress

by Jane Smart

Drinking alcohol and swallowing tranquillisers are common ways of relieving stress in modern life. When we are down or depressed, we look for things that make us feel good, sadly the quick fix seldom works. So what are the alternatives?

• Physical exercise is one of the best ways of relieving stress by allowing built up tension to be naturally dissipated. Spend an hour at a gym and block out stressful thoughts by focusing on each exercise.
• Express your feelings by meeting up with some close friends. Don’t be afraid to laugh or cry!
• Learn to relax your body and mind by using techniques such as massage, aromatherapy and yoga. Your local gym will have regular classes with professional instructors.
• Take time out to do things you enjoy.

Stress is an unavoidable part of life but we all have the opportunity to deal with it by managing our lifestyle. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, take an hour lunch break away from the office and eat healthy food.