Ways to de-stress

I like to post about things I've read and/or seen on television, internet, etc...well, during a recent trip to my pharmacy, I came across some information about stress..which we all suffer from on a daily basis. Here were some tips that I wanted to share...and maybe share a few of my comments..enjoy..

1. Take a deep breath. Shallow breathing can contribute to stressful feelings. So try this easy exercise: Close off your right nostril and inhale slowly through the left. Hold that breath for a count of five. Then close off your left nostril and exhale out of your right nostril. Do this for about five minutes. Breathing slowly and deeply helps prevent stress from overwhelming you.
hmmm...yes, I think breathing is pretty important to do on a daily basis...don't think I could live without it...hehehe...

2. Reach for protein. When work gets in the way of eating, we tend to reach for quick fix snacks that are high in caffeine and sugar. Instead, try snacking on foods that are richer in energy boosting proteins and minerals like potassium, which gets reduced when we're stressed. Better alternatives: peanut butter on a banana or whole wheat crackers. I hate it when work gets in the way, don't you?

3. Write it down. Start a journal where you can jot down some of your thoughts about what's bothering you and help yourself put stress into perspectvie. Hey, maybe I should start a blog...hehehe..

4. Get out and walk. Walking just five minutes with your mind concentrated on your stride and rhythmic breathing does wonders to clear your mind. If you can't walk (or don't want do), simply step outside, swing your arms back and forth and breathe deeply for an energy boost. There's that breathing thing again...must be of some importance.