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7 Simple Stress Busters: SparkPeople SlideShow

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7 Simple Stress Busters

Let's face it: Everyone gets stressed occasionally. Whether it's a small event or a major life change that triggers your stress response, there are several simple ways to cope with the pressures that you may encounter from day to day. Use these ideas to start busting stress in no time!

Take a Walk

Walking is a great way to clear your head and to get in a healthy dose of aerobic exercise at the same time! Leave your worries behind and focus on the fresh air for a little while.

Call a Friend

Contact someone who has a way of putting you at ease. Even if you only talk to him or her for a few minutes, that short interaction can have a world of impact and help you see things with a clearer perspective.

Write in a Journal

Venting is a healthy way to get rid of unwanted stress. Your journal is a great outlet because you don't have to worry what others may think or say about your feelings. Once you're finished writing, at least some of the weight will be lifted from your shoulders and your thoughts will be less clouded.

Play a Game

Board games make you smile, engage you in fun rivalry with others, and help you get your mind off of your worries. Pull out some old favorites like Candy Land, Connect Four, or Twister for some laughs.

Work Up a Sweat

Exercising is a great way to clear your mind and re-focus your energy. Imagine the stress leaving through your pores as you exercise, and take a hot shower afterward to further melt away stress.

Plan Something Fun

Is there an outing or adventure you've always wanted to do? Plan a dinner with friends or a weekend getaway. Not only will it make you push stress to the back burner, but you get to do something nice for yourself, too!

Take a Hot Bath

Taking a long bath slows down both your mind and body and melts away anxiety. Go all out with suds, music, and candles if you want! By the time you dry off, you’ll feel refreshed and energized.

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Member comments on this slideshow

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BUONNATALIE

3/18/2012 2:16:37 PM

Now I just need to remember to actually do these things when I'm feeling it!

JILLITA55

2/28/2012 12:32:46 PM

Some days I am stressed out. It goes along with depression that I need meds for. Alot of time just walking around the block helps it out. When I am not stressed out it's a whole new world out there

SUNRISE14

3/28/2011 7:52:29 AM

I really need help with this stress thing ! I am broke out all here and there because of stress. Got a DH with issues and a step-daughter that has issues and trying to keep both safe happy and give them the best life possible with the issues. I have a hard time trying to keep from fixing things in their life before it happens ! I can't let go . Any suggestions? Lots of hours in the day and to sick myself to do much and get board . By myself alot during the day !

ALWHITE4

7/17/2010 12:12:11 PM

I found that reading a good book takes away my stress and helps to get off to sleep much better try it some time see what it will do for you alwhite4

ALWHITE4

7/17/2010 12:12:11 PM

I found that reading a good book takes away my stress and helps to get off to sleep much better try it some time see what it will do for you alwhite4

BREEZES1

4/24/2010 9:20:34 AM

I love to walk and listen to music. I often wonder when I am listening to my favourate piece of music, why I didn't do it sooner...it seems to take some of my stress away.

DOTTYDRUID

4/19/2010 6:14:21 PM

If you have herbs growing in your garden try these simple stress busters. Take a few fresh leaves of Basil, or Melissa(Lemon Balm) and bruise them between your fingers then cup them over your mouth and nose, and breathe deeply inhaling the aroma. They really soothe you. Or take the washed leaves (Fresh) or crushed dried leaves and put in a cafetiere . Pour on boiling water and allow to steep for 5-10 mins. Strain and drink the tea as required.

KATYBUG48

3/20/2010 10:03:30 PM

Thanks we all need to releive stress, there is to much of it in most of our lives

FLUTTERFLI

3/16/2010 1:01:00 AM

Such simple things you just don't think about in these terms. Stress Busters !!!
Very good !!! Thank you !!!

JENNA3

3/11/2010 2:58:04 PM

It's okay advice. But this is the same advice we've had for years. Sorry to say that stress does not just melt away and not come back. I get as much stress as I relieve from calling someone. My journal is not something I carry in my back pocket. A hot bath isn't always an option. My worst stress is in the middle of the day to early evening-when I'm at work or putting the kids to bed. These pieces of advice might address the symptoms of stress, but the real need is to eliminate the source.

CAMROLA

2/10/2010 8:00:37 PM

Calgon, take me away! Love it : )

RUTGERSALUM

1/12/2010 9:31:07 PM

Love these pieces of advice!

FLETCHERJD

1/7/2010 10:32:20 AM

There are some really good tips here for reducing stress. Taking a hot shower or an outing with friends can help so much. I also like to listen to soft music to help me relax. Soft music helps me escape to that tropical island that someday I will have money to visit

AMIRA2010

12/19/2009 8:18:09 AM

I added this to my favorites so that I always remember these tips.
Thank you.

EVIE13

12/15/2009 8:19:25 PM

Same ol, same ol. Nice pictures though.

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