Most of us experience some level of stress in our lives. The effects can negatively impact our quality of living. Some of the more common symptoms of stress can include headaches, problems sleeping, anxiety, depression, anger, inability to concentrate, and changes in eating patterns. Unmanaged stress can have a negative impact on the immune system and manifest in frequent colds or other illnesses. There are a variety of tools available for managing stress. The following examples illustrate how to take back control and manage stress in your life!

• Keep a Journal: Often there is a psychological component to stress. Keeping a journal allows you to write about a stressful event and process any negative feelings.
• Reality Check: Sometimes when life gets to be too hectic people can get tunnel vision and lose sight of the big picture. Ask yourself a few questions to help break free and see new alternatives:
  What’s the worst thing that can happen?
  What are possible outcomes?
  What are other alternatives to this situation?
• Just Say “No”: Many women take on too many projects, because we don’t want to disappoint our loved ones or we are afraid of the consequences. Give yourself permission to say, “No.”
• Exercise/Yoga/Meditation: These are great ways to relax and recharge.
• Socialize: Get out and spend time with friends; it will help you to feel connected.

Today women are juggling relationships, children, work, and education. It is important to learn how to manage stress in our lives. Often our inability to do so creates even more of the stress we fear. By managing stress we can be mindful in the moment, which will make all aspects of life much more enjoyable and fulfilling.