Module 4-Stress Less: Manage & Reduce Stress

According to the Mayo Clinic, stress symptoms can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings, and your behavior. Being able to recognize common stress symptoms can help you manage them. Stress that's left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. If you have stress symptoms, taking steps to manage your stress can have many health benefits. Explore stress management strategies, such as: Getting regular physical activity Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, tai chi or massage Keeping a sense of humor Spending time with family and friends Setting aside time for hobbies, such as reading a book or listening to music Aim to find active ways to manage your stress. Inactive ways to manage stress — such as watching television, surfing the internet or playing video games — may seem relaxing, but they may increase your stress over the long term. And be sure to get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Avoid tobacco use, excess caffeine and alcohol, and the use of illegal substances. This 30 day module will help you to begin to implement some stress management techniques into your daily routine, which will hopefully become a regular part of your lifestyle and lead to stress reduction in your life!