by Cheryl Scott

Created on: September 28, 2009   Last Updated: July 14, 2010

Stress busters that are tried and true!  Consider these top stress busting tips when stress is getting the best of you.  The more of these tips you apply, the less the stress, the better you.

SUNSHINE AND OUTDOORS
Entirely underrated is the power of the sun and the outdoors in helping lessen stress.  Exposure to sunlight can lift a mood and provide life giving vitamin D.  When you get the chance to go out on a walk for your break, take it.  When choosing a restaurant for lunch, eat at an outside cafe.   Let the sun shine in your windows at home, use natural light where ever possible.  Consider live plants over fake ones.  Whenever and where ever surround yourself with sunshine and the natural environment. 

GOOD DIET
Enough can not be said about a good diet to lessen stress.  To think clearly about any subject, our brains need the right brain food.  Our minds are going to listen to the screams of our bodies.  By eating the wrong foods we can falsely set up alarms in our brains that scream to us something is wrong.  For our minds to be settled and calm, our bodies need to be at homeostasis.  Eat natural foods with minimal additives.  Vegetarian is always a great choice.

REST AND SLEEP
Rest and sleep are vital to reducing stress.  Rest and sleep are different.  Sleep should be continuous for a full 8 undisturbed hours.  Rest should be throughout the day in small frequent breaks.  Rest can include a full body repose to a simple 5 minute eye closure with head down at your desk.  Rest can be strictly focused meditating on the Serenity Prayer, or a time for mental exploration while listening to your favorite music.  Be sure to refresh the body with fluids and necessary dietary needs during your breaks.  Tailor your rest breaks to meet your needs.   

AROMA THERAPY
Don't minimize the use of all of your senses in relaxation and stress management.  Your nose is one of your most powerful senses and often forgotten.  Many different essential oils are used for stress reduction at expensive spas.  Consider going to specialty shops for samples of your favorite smells.  Use candles, incense, shampoos, and other scented personal products.

A NICE LONG BATH, AND WATER THERAPIES
Never miss a bath when you can have one.  Do go in the pool when you take the kids.  Always take your shoes off at the park and walk in the forbidden fountain. 

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