Stress Busters

We cannot completely remove stress as it is part of life. However, if we manage stress successfully, then we will be in better physical and emotional health.

The following stress busters will tell you some positive ways to cope with stress.

Stress Busters!

1. Plan your time well
Keep a daily planner. Give priority to the most important activities and do them first. Break large demands into small, manageable parts. Work through one task at a time. Decide how much time you need for each job. Be careful not to over organise. Leave some room for flexibility and spontaneity.

Planning ahead helps you to complete the tasks you have prioritised. This allows you to have a sense of achievement for the tasks you have completed.

2. Be realistic about what you can do
Choose your work according to your own abilities and interest. Focus on what you can do and not for the impossible. Set goals that are achievable so you don't become frustrated or discouraged.

3. Spread out the major changes in your life
Give yourself time to adjust from one change to another. For example, avoid changing jobs, buying a car or a house all at the same time.

4. Speak to someone about your problems
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. Sharing your worries and concerns with your spouse, family, friend, supervisor or religious leader helps relieve your emotional burden and provides with you emotional support. Try joining relevant support groups in your community. Call a helpline if you need to speak to a counsellor.

5. Interact with your family and friends
Family and friends are a key component of your life. They provide you with friendship, love and support in times of need. Set aside some time each day to talk and relax together.

6. Learn to like yourself and think positive

Be happy with who you are. Keep a positive attitude and outlook in life. This helps you to accept what you cannot change and make the best of what you have.

Don't be overly concerned about your looks. If you are concerned about your weight, speak to your doctor or a nutritionist, who would be able to assess your weight status and give advice on weight management, if necessary.

7. Keep healthy
Keep your body healthy and fit by exercising regularly, eating wisely and getting enough sleep. Engaging in regular physical activity releases endorphins which give you a natural "high". Eating a healthy and balanced diet based on the Healthy Diet Pyramid will provide the recommended level of nutrients to boost the immune system.

8. Make some time for yourself
Do something that you really enjoy. Take up a hobby like dancing, painting or a sport. Take a short break when you feel tense or tired. Get up and stretch, or take a short walk. When you return to your work, you can concentrate better.

9. Learn some relaxation techniques
Deep breathing exercises, meditation, massage and muscle relation techniques help to relieve stress.

Related Tools / Resources:
A Time for Relaxation, Vol. 1: Guided Relaxation Techniques for Wellness
Relaxation & Breathing for Meditation
The Relaxation & Stress Reduction Workbook (New Harbinger Self-Help Workbook)
Stress & Relaxation Explained: An Introduction to Stress Management and Relaxation Techniques
Relaxation and Stress Relief, Visualization Techniques DVD