TheBeyondWoman Magazine Issue #1 | Page 31

2 Be clear about the source of your 3 Manage your reaction stress. Often times when we gain clarity we can better deal with the challenges ahead. Pinpointing the actual stressor can help you to have a more effective strategy to address the stress. Assess your typical reactions and see how you can modify your reactions to him/her or it. Sometimes our reaction can even exacerbate the situation. 4 Learn to Relax Hearing relax when you are stressed can be quite annoying, however it’s quite a necessary remind- er. Practice meditation, and breathing exercises. In fact, just taking a deep breath helps to release anxiety. The breath actually helps to control our physical state so use it. It’s the quickest way to get calm by taking deep breaths and slowly releasing. 5 Help others By helping someone else you can minimize your own stress. It helps when you shift your attention from the issue at hand. This is not a bad thing when you are absolutely overwhelmed, and it can bring the well needed relief. 6 Work it off Physical activities are a great way to reduce stress. It releases the endorphins which causes you to feel happy and upbeat. Try running, jogging, skipping, gardening, yoga, and so much more. Just choose something you like and go for it. 7 Use the situation to power you Sometimes through our greatest adversities comes our biggest achievement. Use it to fuel you to accomplish more. Decide on what you could use it for and do that. Ever notice the success stories are from some really tough and challenging circum- stances? 8 Become aware of your emotions. Are you aware of how you are feeling? Depression doesn’t happen overnight. Take the time out to manage how you are feeling on a regular basis. If something is not feeling right address it early, in this case delay can be dangerous. These 8 steps are just a few of the many things you can do to alleviate and minimize stress, in order to ensure you do not end up in de- pression. Don’t forget to simply have fun and count your blessings.Good luck and know that the universe is always conspiring on your behalf. Rese Carter Health /lifestyle Coach – Motivational Speaker www.resecarter.com Page: - 31 - The Beyond Woman Magazine