1. Pray: It helps to know that there is a Higher Authority who is in charge of your life. The shortest and surest solution to our problems is found in prayer. 2. Stay busy: Keep your heart and tongue busy with remembrance and try to distract yourself with positive stimuli, instead of wallowing in self-pity or depression. 3. Let go: Watch for the next instance in which you find yourself becoming annoyed or angry at something trivial or unimportant. Then make a conscious choice not to become angry or upset. Do not allow yourself to waste thought and energy where it isn't deserved or where it won't serve any purpose. 4. Breathe slowly and deeply: Before reacting to the next stressful occurrence, take three deep breaths and release them slowly. If you have a few minutes, try out a relaxation technique such as guided imagery. 5. Speak slower: Whenever you feel overwhelmed by stress, practice speaking more slowly than usual. You'll find that you think more clearly and react more reasonably to stressful situations. Stressed people tend to speak fast and breathlessly; by slowing down your speech you'll also appear less anxious and more in control of any situation. 6. Get outdoors for a brief break: Our grandparents were right about the healing power of fresh air. Don't be deterred by foul weather or a full schedule. Even five minutes on a balcony or terrace can be rejuvenating. 7. Drink plenty of water and eat small, nutritious snacks: Hunger and dehydration, even before you're aware of them, can provoke aggressiveness and exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress. 8. Do a quick posture check: Hold your head and shoulders upright and avoid stooping or slumping. Bad posture can lead to muscle tension, pain, and increased stress. If you're stuck at a desk most of the day, avoid repetitive strain injuries and sore muscles by making sure your workstation reflects good ergonomic design principles. 9. Plan something rewarding for the end of your stressful day, even if only a relaxing bath or half an hour with a good book. Put aside work, housekeeping or family concerns for a brief period before bedtime and allow yourself to fully relax. __
