5 Simple Tips to Ease Stress

By Megan Broda

1. Start the day off right. Wake up 10 minutes earlier so you can slow down and savor the morning without the rush. The extra 10 minutes aren’t going to make much difference as far as your rest goes, but can make a huge impact on your day.

2. Practice relaxation techniques when stressed. Practice deep belly breathing exercises while waiting in line at the grocery store or in traffic.

3. Rub your temples. Tame tension headaches by rubbing peppermint oil or tiger balm. These contain menthol which has analgesic properties.

4. Get a massage. Find a body worker who specializes in myofascial release or neuromuscular therapy to release the trigger points that can hold your tension.

5. Exercise. Virtually any form of exercise will release endorphins, which are your brain's feel good neurotransmitters. It also reduces the symptoms associated with mild depression and anxiety.

Megan Broda is a Personal Trainer with One on One, Fitness Consultants Inc., in State College, Pennsylvania.