Making adequate lifestyle changes can help build resistance to stress and improve your overall health.  Most of the following tips have to do with taking a little time to enjoy life and nature.  Getting yourself out of the office or, at least, your mind out of the office for a brief time can raise your quality of life significantly. 

1:  Jog, Swim, or Bike.  Exercise increases the flow of endorphins, natural pain relievers that are responsible for what is called, “the runner's high”.  In addition, exercising, if don two to three times a week, will improve your circulation and help relieve chronic tension and anxiety.  You may also find you reap more enjoyment from life!

2:  Walk.  Simply walking in good shoes with flexible soles can be one of the best forms of exercise.  If you can only manage a short walk in the beginning, even ten minutes, remember that any new habit begins with one small step.

3:  Stretch Frequently.  Practicing stretches every hour or two, if done properly, can help relieve muscle tension and prevent injury.  Ask your massage therapist for suggestions.

4:  Get Out.  Get regular exposure to outdoor light and fresh air.  This can reduce the effects of seasonal affective disorder, and stress in general to lift your spirits.

5:  See Your Doctor.  Get a complete physical evaluation to rule out any conditions that may be taking their toll.

6:  Ask Your Physician.  Ask your physician for recommendations for vitamins and other supplements.  Some supplements seem to help increase energy levels and balance hormones and other chemicals in the body.

7: Don't Let Grief Get the Best of You.   If you feel that stress threatens to overwhelm you, seek a professional counselor.  You could have trouble sorting things out for awhile or it could be something more serious.  Don't wait to see if you can handle things on your own.

8:  Drink Plenty of Water.  Again, drink plenty of water.  You have heard this before and forgot already.  Just do it.  Pure water is best.  Eight glasses a day.  You will feel better and your body will function better too.

9:  Get a Massage.  Getting regular massage (once a month for a healthy body) will reinforce your ability to let go of stress.

10:  Movement Exercise.  Taking a yoga or tai chi class can help you focus on you and not your stress.  Take a class at your gym or invest in a regular studio class. 

*Some of these tips have been adapted with permission from the Client Education Handouts for Self-Care:  Step-by-Step Instructions to Support Your Clients Between Sessions by Information for People, Inc. 2003.