Healthy Ideas to Manage Life's Pressures

So we know it's all not going to be a carousel ride, don't we? How we handle the ups and downs of day to day living can profoundly affect our mental and physical health. With a brain already chemically out of balance, any disruption can seem unbearable; even missing a meal or not getting enough sleep can spiral into something much worse. Let's think of some ways to take care of ourselves, shall we? (With a little help from Mental Health America...)

• Connect with others. You don't have to cope with stress or other issues on your own. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, support group or counselor can make you feel better. Spending time with positive, loving people that you care about and trust can ease stress and improve your mood. (duh. Going it alone sucks.)
  

• Relax your mind. Each person has his or her own ways to relax. You can relax by listening to soothing music, reading a book, or doing a quiet activity. Also think about deep breathing, yoga, meditation or massage therapy. (I'm all over that massage thing.)

• Exercise. Exercising relieves your tense muscles, improves your mood and sleep, and increases your energy and strength. In fact, researchers say that exercise eases symptoms of anxiety and depression. You may not even need to exercise intensely to get the benefits of activity. Try taking a brisk walk or use a stationary bike. See what it takes for you to feel better. (If you answered "not exercising" you are not trying.)

We'll continue this discussion later.... You can check out Mental Health America here.