by Bruce W. Coffman

Created on: November 21, 2008   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

We all face stress in our daily lives and it's a natural part of living. However, when stress becomes overwhelming it can lead to serious health problems. Cutting out stress is one of the best ways to preserve our emotional and physical health and it can be done by following seven simple steps.

Meet Challenges Head On

One major source of stress is worry. Putting off dealing with a problem or challenge leads to increased worry and is often worse than just dealing the issue immediately. For example, if you're worried about not being able to pay your credit card bill this month call the credit card company and explain the situation. Instead of spending time worrying and agonizing over the possible reaction, you might find that they are surprisingly willing to work with you. Most problems are not nearly as bad as we make them out to be and when you take a proactive approach to dealing with them you will find that you have a sense of accomplishment instead of a sense of dread.

Get Moving

You've heard it a million times, but it really is true that exercise can help reduce stress levels. Exercise causes our bodies to release endorphins which are nature's mood boosters. This doesn't mean you have to run a marathon to feel better. Any little bit of added activity helps. You can do something as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator at work or taking a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood.

Decompress

Allow yourself alone time each day to unwind and relax. You need time to decompress after a hectic day and you deserve that time. No matter how crazy things get, allow yourself as little as ten minutes just for you. Take this time to do nothing other than let go of the tension you've been carrying around all day. Soak in a bubble bath, practice deep breathing, do some simple yoga exercises or anything else that helps you unburden yourself.

Unplug

Each day we are barraged with communication. Phone calls, emails, TV and other forms of constant communication have made life easier, but have also made life more hectic and stressful. Take some time each day to simply unplug and remove yourself from these constant distractions. This can either be during your decompression time or, preferably, at another point during the day. You'll find that even a few minutes without something ringing, beeping or otherwise calling out for your attention will do you a world of good.

Entertain Yourself

Whether it's reading a book or listening to music, find an activity that you enjoy and

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