Simple Ways to Handle Stress

If you've ever suffered from stress, you'll know how it feels. Tension headaches, back pain, acid stomach are among the physical symptoms. Emotionally stress causes temper outbursts, weepiness, inertia and a mind racing with thoughts about what needs to be done. We know it is bad for our health, especially in the long run, but many of us have learnt to live with the toils of everyday stress The good news is that there are some simple, free ways of reducing stress. It's all about letting go of the emotions in a safe, appropriate way.

Please be aware that when I first tried these things I felt ridiculous but having done them I soon discovered how well they work. So go ahead and try one or more of the following suggestions:

1) If you are just mildly frustrated or annoyed take a couple of really deep breaths and imagine how the tension fizzles out. Then do something different than your immediate defence/attack reaction might have been.

2) Get used to screaming in a pillow when you feel that the whole world is against you. I call it "taking the pill". Put words on your screams. I often use "Stop controlling me", "Leave me alone", "Get out of my way" (in traffic), "You bastard" and so on. Notice how different you feel afterwards.

3) Have pillows in your car and in your desk at the office. I have small discrete ones, which don't attract attention. Have one in your handbag or briefcase.

4) If you're in a public place go to the toilet, flush and let the frustration out in a pillow or in your upper arm, a so-called arm scream.

5) If you are really very angry and you're at home try a temper tantrum. Lie on the bed or a mattress and kick and bang your arms and legs at the same time like you've seen little kids do. Finish off with a series of pillow screams.

The first time I screamed in a pillow and did a tantrum I felt very self-conscious and rather stupid. But now I'm just happy to know such simple ways to feel better. At the same time my relations function better when I'm not driven by stress and anger. And nobody has to see you do it or even know that you do it.

So next time you are in a heated discussion with a colleague, your child or another family member and you feel you are about to explode, excuse yourself go somewhere private and take the "pill". Remember that taking care of your emotional health and well-being can add years to your life. nnn