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In modern life, stress is one of the most difficult problems we have to face. It takes a toll on our mental and physical well-being. Fortunately, there are many things which we can do to deal with stress in on a daily basis.

Do Yoga

Yoga is one of the best ways to reduce stress. All you need is a space large enough to allow freedom of movement. A mat, DVDs, CDs and certain props can also be very helpful. Just twenty minutes a day of yoga can dramatically reduce our stress level. However, forty minutes will provide a greater benefit. If you don't have time to do a full routine, try to sneak in yoga breaks throughout the day. Twist, stretch and do forward bends. You can even do yoga at your desk or in bed. Try fitting a few postures in while you're waiting for a file to download or for a pot to boil.

Meditate

To meditate all you need is a quiet room and some cushions. Set the cushions on the floor and rest the edge of your buttocks on them. Move your body around a little bit to get settled. Then take some deep breaths and close your eyes. If you like, you may place the index finger and thumb together in the anjali mudra. Observe the flow of breath in and out of your body. Do not try to control it. Observe the thoughts that flow through your mind. If a though comes, acknowledge it as you would a cloud in the sky, and let it go. Continue meditating for at least ten minutes.

Visualize

You can visualize while meditating, or while simply relaxing. Imagine something very positive and pleasant. For example, imagine that you are in a beautiful tropical forest with a pure, clean stream nearby. Bring the images of the forest into your imagination as vividly as possible. Or if you prefer, imagine that you're on a beach, on a mountain or near a waterfall. There are many guided meditation tapes and CDs which can help you to visualize more clearly.

Walk

Walking in nature is very calming and soothing. Try to find an area near where you live that is removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you live in the country, all the better. Whether you walk vigorously or in a leisurely manner, you will begin to feel your tensions beginning to unwind. A treadmill is a great way to get walking exercise when the weather outside is forbidding.

Breathe

Many people are shallow breathers, or tend to hold their breath. If you remind yourself to breathe throughout the day, you will begin to experience a greater sense of calm and tranquility. Take a deep breath in, then hold the breath for about a second. Then slowly release the breath. Repeat the process. Studies have shown that simply breathing more slowly can reduce tension and anxiety.

Take a Hot Bath

Immersion in hot water can help to relax the muscles and soothe the mind. We all need a break from the sensory bombardment which comes with modern life. You can turn your bathtub into a sensory deprivation tank. Be sure to do this at a time when the house is quiet and you will not be disturbed. Close the bathroom door. Light some candles, turn out the electric lights. Then slip into the tub and close your eyes. Your mind will revel in the peace and quiet.

It's very important to take time throughout the day to reduce stress. Taking short breaks frequently, several times per day, can make a huge difference in how we feel. Try to find out which activities help you to relax and unwind, and do them every day.

Learn more about this author, Jennifer Claerr.
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