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Reduce Stress

You might say women are born worriers. On average, we fret and stress about the little things (and the not so little) twice as much as men. Of course, we have good reason: In addition to juggling multiple projects at the office, women also manage more of the family and home obligations. While stress can sometimes be helpful in ensuring things get accomplished in a timely fashion, chronic stress can lead to all sorts of health woes including weight gain, heart disease, migraines, depression and autoimmune disorders.

Unfortunately, learning to let go isn’t easy. Stress-management skills, such as the ones listed below, can help you remain relatively calm through even the most challenging situations. Start practicing them today to have a little more fun, and a lot less stress, in the year ahead.

Prioritize. Compile a daily list of things that absolutely must get done and things that would be nice (but not necessary) to accomplish. Start with the most important and give yourself permission to get to the “nice, but not necessary” items whenever you have the time.

Keep fit. Exercise is a healthy way to relieve frustration and pent-up tension in the neck and shoulders. And when you’re in better shape, you’ll feel less stressed overall.

Eat healthy. Stress can make you want to shovel in the triple butterfat ice cream by the spoonfuls when what your body really needs is healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables that are full of vitamins and minerals. And don’t skip meals because you’re too pressed for time — you’ll only end up overeating at your next meal or reaching for the chips.

Laugh out loud. A good belly laugh doesn’t just lighten the load mentally, it activates your body’s stress response by stimulating circulation, easing digestion and increasing your oxygen intake and feel-good endorphins. So tune in to your favorite TV show, read the comics or spend some time with someone who makes you smile.

Seek support. Don’t cope alone and let stress build. Research shows that a good social support system is one of the most important resources for dealing with stress — in or out of the workplace. In addition to letting off steam, talking to a friend is a great way to brainstorm ideas for improving your stressful situation.

Learn to let go. If an activity looks like it’s going to be another source of stress in your life (especially for the long-term), take a pass. There’s no need to make up excuses. Simply state that your plate is too full at the moment, but you appreciate the opportunity.

Take time off. More than a third of us don’t use all of our vacation time; yet all work and no play isn’t healthy. Take a long weekend and head out of town. Relieve the pressure of the day by taking short breaks (go on a quick walk or simply step outside for some fresh air).

Meditate. A few minutes — five to fifteen — spent in quiet reflection can alleviate anxiety. You can sit quietly, listen to soothing music, relax and let your mind go blank (or think of pleasant things that don’t stress you out). Or practice simple stretches or deep breathing exercises. Once you put these stress busters to work consistently (and not just when the pressure’s on), you’ll find yourself living happier, healthier and perhaps even longer!