STRESS

So I don't know about you,

but lately my life has been all about stress

Between work, helping people move, 

signing a new lease, figuring out finance, 

45 pages worth of writing for finals, 

And trying to figure out summer school/graduation

I've been feeling like I'm going to explode. 

I'm guessing a lot of you are feeling the same way

with Finals and such

So I'm going to give you a few tips

I do to help stress, maybe they'll help you too

Tip 1: Play classical or other relaxing music. 

I recommend Jean-Yves Thibaudet, namely 

The Pride and Prejudice soundtrack 

That CD relaxes me in about 20 seconds

Tip 2: Drink something warm, and comforting

I recommend warm tea or hot chocolate. 

I know it might not feel like you have the time, 

But just pour your self a glass, 

and take five minutes to just sit and drink

Tip 3: Get to bed early, and get up early

You will be amazed with how much you can get done

When you get up just an hour early. 

I am a night person so trust me, I get the temptation to stay up

But more things are open that can help you

with any tasks you need to do that require help

Tip 4: Make a list

Make out a list of all the things you need to do

Then make a second list numbering them in priority

If the list is super long it could bring more stress

But what will help is checking off or crossing out

each thing on your list as it gets done

You'll be amazed at how fast it gets smaller

Tip 5: Take a deep, calming breath

I know that sounds like common sense, 

But when you are stressed some times you forget just to breathe

Taking a moment to remind yourself

could be just what your body needs, 

not to mention it will relax tense muscles a little

Tip 6: Yell

When I am in the car and stressed out

I take in a deep breath, as big as I can get

and while I exhale I yell not super loud

Just powerful, with all your lung support 

Just say aaaaaaa nice and deep, 

picture the stress leaving your body. 

On really bad days I'll do it a few times

You'll be amazed at how well it works

Plus hopefully it will bring a giggle out of you

Which is an awesome stress reliever 

Tip 7: Take a warm bath or shower

I am a HUGE fan of baths

I love to just fill the tub with bubbles or salts

And lay in it for an hour or more. 

I come out feeling relaxed and ready for a restful sleep

And in the morning when I wake up I'm already clean and ready to go

Tip 8: Go to the gym

The gym is such a great break

You are still being active and productive

So you won't feel any guilt for doing it

Plus going to the gym releases endorphins 

endorphins give you the energy you need to take on the day

Tip 9: Take a dance break!

Dance away your stress

Put on your favorite song, 

the one that just makes you want to grove

blast it on your speakers or ipod 

and dance away for three minutes

Tip 10: Stop for a snack

Stop your work for an afternoon snack

Eating something healthy and filling 

will help you focus on your task

you won't be hungry or wondering what to eat

I recommend granola, banana, apples and peanut butter, 

mixed nuts, trail mix, or yogurt.

Tip 11: DON'T PROCRASTINATE 

You will feel so much better 

if you get things done ahead of time

Rather than just in time

Most stress can be avoided 

if you avoid procrastination

"Give your stress wings and let it fly away." ~ Terri Guillements