We all face stress in our lives, from daily frustrations like traffic jams, to major life dilemmas like divorce or job loss. But aside from the obvious emotional impact, stress can also affect your physical health.\r
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Have you ever noticed that you tend to get sick when you’re already facing major amounts of stress in your life? That’s because chronic stress can depress your immune system, making you more susceptible to common illnesses like colds or the flu. If the stress continues unabated, symptoms might manifest in ever major body system. In fact, in the long term stress has been linked to serious problems such as:\r

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• muscle tension and pain

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• headaches

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• high blood pressure

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• stroke

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• heart disease and heart attacks

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• increased asthma attacks

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• type 2 diabetes

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• heartburn and acid reflux

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• stomach ulcers

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• constipation and diarrhea

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• erectile dysfunction, low sperm count, lowered sex drive, and impotence (in men)

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• irregular menstrual cycles, worsened PMS symptoms, greater difficulty during menopause, and lowered sex drive (in women)

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To some extent, it is not possible to avoid everyday stress in our lives. We’re going to be late to work, the kids are going to forget their homework, and relatives are going to say things that upset us. But as you can see, the long-term effects of chronic stress can be disastrous. Avoiding stress is probably impossible for most of us, but learning to deal with stress may be an important key to better health and a longer, happier life.\r
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Get plenty of exercise. In fact, when stressful situations arise, just a ten-minute walk can help to boost your mood!\r
Sleep. Do whatever it takes to get 8 hours of sleep each night. Use room darkening shades, drink some warm chamomile tea, and invest in quality bedding.\r
Go outside. If you’re in no mood to exercise, simply sitting outside in the sun can be soothing for many people.\r
Learn to say no. It’s okay to know your own limits, and enforce them. If you’re over-scheduled already, don’t let guilt pressure you into commitments you don’t want to make.\r
Learn to cheat. If you volunteered to bring cookies for the class party, grab a pack from the grocery store bakery. If you’re supposed to bring a side dish to your work potluck, hit the deli. Don’t feel the need to be everything to everyone.\r
Eat a healthy diet. A diet composed of sugary carbs will cause your blood sugar levels to fluctuate, making you feel cranky and tired.\r
Try lavender. Lavender has a calming effect on most people. Take lavender bubble baths, or place a lavender sachet inside your pillow case.\r
Talk to a counselor. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.\r
What works for a friend may not work for you. As with most personal health issues, you might need to experiment a bit before you find the right ways to manage your own personal stress.