Easy ways to reduce stress and boost your happiness

Monday, 20 April 2009 10:35

These days, you can’t avoid talk of falling housing prices, rising consumer debt and the unstable financial market. And with this looming financial crisis comes a boatload of anxiety. In fact, a recent poll by the American Psychological Association (APA) reveals that 75 percent of Americans are stressed by money and more than one in two report that housing costs are causing them stress. So if you’re one of these folks, here are some simple ways to get a handle on your anxiety so you can focus on smiling, not stressing.

Stressed Woman

Get a breath of fresh air

Help the economy and the environment by giving your car a break and opting for alternative modes of transportation whenever possible. Live close to your office? Hop on your bike and pedal to work (read Get Fit on Your Bike for cycling tips). Grocery store within walking distance? Lace up your sneakers and hoof it (just be sure to bring a backpack for your food so your arms aren’t weighed down by bags). This way, you’ll get some much-needed fresh air, a bit of exercise, and avoid the inevitable headache associated with traffic. Better yet, your budget will be boosted by all of that cash you save on gas!

Sweat away the stress

All you need is about 20 minutes each day to completely clear your head of your worries – even if it is only temporarily. Load up your iPod with high-energy playlists and go for a power walk or a run. As an alternative, go jump in a pool – the soothing rush of water and focusing your thoughts on the painted black line on the bottom of a lap lane can help empty your brain (even better, you can burn over 300 calories in 45 minutes!). Not a fitness fanatic? Practicing meditation or deep breathing exercises work just as well to get rid of anxiety and recharge your emotional batteries.

Be a do-gooder

It sounds cliche, but helping those who are less fortunate than you can help you realize that your situation isn’t so dire. Consider dedicating a couple of hours a week to a cause close to your heart: Look into volunteer gigs at a homeless shelter, retirement home, local animal shelter, or charity – you can also visit VolunteerMatch.com to find other opportunities near you. Whatever you do, you’ll be amazed how even a minimal amount of interaction with a litter of snuggly puppies or a smile from a cherubic child can effectively lift your spirits – and theirs. Plus, you’ll get the perspective you need to get a better handle on your own stress.

Pamper yourself

Pinching pennies? Then you probably crossed spa treatments and mani/pedi’s off your must-do list. And when you’re slaving away at work or managing your family, it may feel impossible to put yourself first. But this is the time to do just that: Treat yourself to an afternoon at the salon (check out Spafinder.com for discounts and specials at nearby spas) or set up an at-home spa day. Even better? Invite your kids or your friends to join you for a spa party. Indulging in a pampering girly day can be just what you need to wash away your worries.

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