Before I leave you with a list of resources (find the ones that work best for you) a quote from the president of the American Institute of Stress, Paul J. Rosch, MD... because, stress isn't all bad, it's about balance!

Hints for Healthy Stress Management

• Exercise -Exercise is a great way to combat stress. Exercise increases the release of endorphins, increases your circulation and increases your serotonin levels – this means you are happier, physically healthier. Which in turn leads to better interactions with others, better food choices, and increased immunity! 20-30 minutes of light exercise (such as a brisk walk) a few times a week can help keep your stress in check and your body healthy!

• Catch some rays! Especially now that winter is upon us, getting in some sunshine daily (or as often as possible) is important for Vitamin D production, which is important for mood and immunity. 20-30 minutes daily!

• Adequate Vitamin B complex and Magnesium - both these nutrients are essential for managing stress in the body. Vitamin B complex is used for the proper functioning of the nervous system and can improve your energy. Magnesium helps relieve muscle tension, improve sleep and has a calming effect. Eating foods high in B vitamins (such as Tuna, baked potato with the skin, salmon, banana, sweet potato, beans, spinach and asparagus) as well as magnesium (almonds, hazelnuts, spinach, swiss chard, sunflower seeds, tofu, brown rice, and beans) will help keeping you feel good!

• Proper Diet - a diet high in fiber, dark green vegetables, fruit, and legumes while moderating the amount of processed foods, sugar, high fructose corn syrup, alcohol and caffeine – will not only provide you with stress-busting nutrients but will strengthen your immune system!

• Journaling - Being able to vent your frustrations, explore your thought process, and become more aware of your mental state is an important part of coping! Journaling is a means of doing all of this, allowing you to become aware of your triggers, responses and ways you effectively manage them.

• Scheduling time for yourself! It is hugely important to take care of YOU! Make sure you plan time each week (if not each day) to do something you enjoy.

• Sleep Well! - Sleep is a great healer. This is the time your body repairs itself, and it is essential for proper brain function, metabolism, immunity and healing. If you’re having recurring sleep difficulties, please consult a health-care professional.

• Yoga/Meditation - various forms of yoga and meditation are extremely helpful ways to manage stress – their focus on both the breath and awareness improve circulation and oxygenation of your body and brain – this relieves fatigue and irritability. Increased awareness of your mental and physical state will lead to action and increased self-care.

• Even if you don’t have time now to commit to one of these practices, the breath of joy (click link!) is a simple practice that releases tension and improves breathing and circulation - try it in the mornings, evenings or when the stress is getting to you!

• Acupuncture - acupuncture can be used to help relieve both the physical and mental symptoms of stress, while helping get to the root of the problem! Your acupuncturist may recommend herbs, and/or breathing exercises in addition to treatment to help you learn to manage stress on your own.

All material here is provided for your information only and may not be construed as medical advice or instruction. No action or inaction should be taken based solely on the contents of this information; instead, readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their personal health and well-being.