What is Stress?
Stress is a perceived threat to one's mind, body, spirit or emotions. It is a response to the demands placed on our lives.

Stress Reactions
Physical stress reactions may include a faster heart rate, knots in stomach, muscle tension, increased blood pressure, cold hands and feet, etc. Emotionally people react to stress with a mix of anger and fear. Anger emotions may include impatience, guilt, frustration, jealousy, envy, hostility, rage, etc. Fear emotions may include doubt, anxiety, panic, embarrassment, humiliation, paranoia, etc.

What can you do?
Gain Awareness. First you must identify your current stresses. What stresses you out? Also identify how you have effectively dealt with stress in the past. Is this something you can do again?

Preparation. Prepare yourself so you can limit the amount of stress you face. What are your priorities and what are your limits? Not everything is important so make sure you complete the most important task first. Also realize, no one can do everything, so know what you can handle.

Acceptance. Everyone will become stressed at some point. Accept this is part of life. Keep a positive attitude and talk yourself out of becoming upset.

Activities and Exercises. What can you do to relax when you are already stressed?

• Exercise

• Adjust Standards

• Sleep

• Change Mindset

• Muscle Relaxation/ Massage

• Be Optimistic

• Aromatherapy

• Compromise

• Journaling

• Express Feelings

• Prioritize

• Play

• Reduce Distractions

• Change Diet

• Time Management

• Avoid Toxins/Drugs

• Breating Techniques

• Avoid Stressful People

• Relaxation Techniques

• Ask for Help

• Use Art or Music

• Develop Support

• Visual Imagery

• Meditation