Tips on Beating Stress

Your body knows instinctively that stress - physical response to a psychological overload - hurts. And it's not only the mega doses of angst that goes along with death, divorce, unemployment and job change that take a toll, but the everyday stress of traffic gridlock, appliance breakdowns, family fights and late dinners with over cooked vegetables lead to stress related health problems ranging from hives to increased risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke and brain tumor.

There are ways to beat stress, but you have to put your organizational skills to work and learn how to relax despite it all.

Eliminating the Morning Rush

The night before, know what you're going to wear tomorrow and check everything for spots, missing buttons. Fill up the car with fuel.

Put the coffee on and set the timer so that when you wake up in the morning, the java's ready and you can savor that first steaming cup without waiting.

Get up early. This gives you time to exercise, walk the dog, pack a lunch or just take some quiet time for yourself.

Set the clocks ahead 5 - 10 minutes, then forget about it. You'll worry less about getting off on time.

Post reminders on the bathroom mirror or refrigerator so that you don't forget things like your lunch sack, gym bag, appointment book or briefcase.

Survival Tactics to Get Through the Day

Take breaks. Take 15 minutes in the morning and again in the afternoon. Get up, walk around, stretch. If you stand on your feet all day, sit down, read the newspaper and enjoy a glass of cold water or fruit juice.

Walk at lunchtime. Like other aerobic exercise, it's a great stress reliever. Walking a mile or two with a buddy makes it go faster and gives you both a chance to talk things out.

Don't try to do too much at once. When things pile up, take them one step at a time. Before you know it, work projects will no longer seem overwhelming.

Have duplicates made of any items you'd be lost without - like your car keys, eyeglasses, list of important phone numbers. Anyone who has ever locked their keys in the car will appreciate this tip.

Get a cordless phone and take it with you when working in the garage, the yard, or your suntan.