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Relieve
STRESS
one
day
at a
time
WAS YOUR DAY STRESSFUL?
The truth is, between minor an-
noyances and long-term worries, ev-
ery day brings a degree of stress. It’s
easy to let it get the upper hand and
just hope for a better day tomorrow.
That better day can arrive, but
you’ll need to take charge to make it
happen.
Think of it as training for a
healthier, less stressed you. Give this
stress-relief training schedule a try:
FRIDAY:
Make a
to-do list. Put the most
important items at
the top—then cross
off most of the rest.
Pencil in some time for
yourself.
MONDAY:
Call
a friend. Choose
a good listener,
and take time to
talk freely about
your problems
and feelings. Repeat
as necessary. And don’t
forget to listen to your
friend’s problems too.
TUESDAY:
Go for a walk—or a run
or a bike ride. Exercise triggers your
body to release endorphins, which can
improve your mood. Repeat as often as
possible.
WEDNESDAY:
Design a new
diet. Make sure it includes plenty
of fruits, vegetables, protein and
whole grains. Don’t be drastic;
choose foods you like, and
make a few changes at a time.
THURSDAY:
Schedule
yourself for seven to nine
hours of sleep. Adequate
sleep helps restore clear
thinking and emotional
balance. Repeat as often
as possible.
Write down the unhealthy ways you
tend to deal with stress, such as smok-
ing, drinking alcohol or overeating.
Identify one you can start working to
change now.
From us to you
For some new healthy recipes, go to
frhs.org
.
Sources: American Psychological Association; Office on
Women’s Health
OVER THE WEEKEND:
Take time
to think about what triggers your
stress. If there are items you can
change or avoid, make a plan to do so.
14 FAITH REGIONAL
HEALTH SERVICES