Maintaining Your Health Winter 2004/2005
  
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Maintaining Your Health Online Winter/Spring 2005

Relieving Stress Through Coping Strategies
   
  A primary way to manage stress is to use healthy coping strategies to relax when stress occurs. Many coping strategies are easy to do and can be started with little or no instruction. While there is no “silver bullet” one-fits-all strategy, the “silver lining” is that
there are several strategies to choose from. The key is to try them, note the results, pick the ones which provide relief and then use them regularly. A few of the most common strategies are:

Physical activity. Physical activity, especially aerobic-based exercise, has reduced stress and the stress response in many people. Muscle tension can be relieved through stretching. The single best strategy for stress relief may be regular, moderate physical activity. For information about becoming more active, consult the Fitness topic on www.webmd.com.

Writing. There is increased evidence that writing about stressful events and circumstances can help relieve stress and improve diseases that stress may affect. Write for 10 to 15 minutes a day about your feelings about the stressful events that occurred..

Talking about your feelings. Express your feelings to a friend, spouse or confidant in a positive, respectful way. This will help you will be able to understand your feelings and cope with them better.

Laughing and crying. Two natural ways to relieve stress and release tension are laughing and crying. Both actions are part of your normal emotional healing process.

Finding an activity that you enjoy. Tension can be relieved by participating in a meaningful activity. This might include can be a hobby, such as gardening, or a creative activity, such as writing, crafts, or art. Caring for and playing with pets also helps people relax.

For more information, visit WebMD.


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