We all go through stressful times in our lives. Having ways to relax during stressful times, is a skill in itself. Each of us needs to have a group of tools ready to use when we must endure stressful times. Here is a list of 10 ideas that can help:

1. Sit quietly and concentrate on breathing. Take a deep breath in and let it out. Do this 10 times. Read about this at WebMD. Here is another site if you would like some 5 minute meditations.

2. Take a walk - Sometimes just changing your location and if possible getting some fresh air helps. It may allow you to see something from a different vantage point. The exercise itself is also good for relieving stress. (See #9)

3. Write it down - Just the act of writing about the stress can often make a difference. Look over what you have written for clues about what triggers the stress and how to alleviate it.

4. Express your feelings - Sometimes just expressing your fears out loud to a trusted friend or counselor is enough to help manage the stress. It is helpful to hear someone else's point of view and maybe some ideas you have overlooked.

5. Humor therapy - Laughter is known to alleviate stress. Find a way to laugh about something. Read a humorous book, go to a funny movie or rent some videos of comedians that make you laugh. (In November of 2002 I wrote a list 10 Reasons that Laughter Promotes Good Health. While that list does not appear on my website I have a copy for those who would like it. Just email me at asparker@asparker.com and request it.)

6. Do something you enjoy. Any sort of meaningful activity can relax tension. Whether it is painting, knitting, cooking, singing or golf, take a break to enjoy yourself and relax.

7. Massage or stretching can relieve muscle tension and relax you. Shoulders and neck are the places most people carry the tension. (I know I do.) Sometimes we are not even aware that we are under stress. A good massage therapist can feel the tension in your body. (This is my personal favorite. I often think I am stress free when I am not.) When you stretch you feel the places that hold the tension and often you can get it to release with the stretch.

8. Yoga, Tai chi, qi gong, which are forms of exercise and meditation. These generally require initial instruction. Books and videos are available to help you if you want to do these activities at home. There are also classes to learn these techniques.

9. Physical Activity - Aerobic exercise such as dancing, biking and swimming are good ways to combat stress.

10. Progressive muscle relaxation - To do this you may need a tape, CD or download (see below) until you learn the muscle groups. It involves tightening each muscle group in your body as you breathe in and relaxing the group as you breathe out. This is great to use if you have trouble falling asleep. You can also do a modified version of this at your desk at work by breathing in and tightening your hands and arms. Then breathe out and let your body become limp. Want to try it? Here is a link to an MP3 download to help you.

Note from Alvah: Here are some things that may feel like they relieve stress but are harmful to your health: alcohol, cigarettes, constant eating, and watching the news on TV.

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