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No matter who we are, stress is something that affects all of us. Many people experience high levels of stress at work, while stress related to family concerns is a common problem for many others. It doesn’t matter what causes the stress, for many people it is still difficult to cope with.

There are many harmful effects of stress, including an association with gastrointestinal and cardiovascular diseases, an impact on psychological well-being, tension headaches, and a reduced immune resistance to infactions such as the common cold. It may also worsen conditions such as high blood pressure, asthma, and diabetes.

The best way to combat stress is through relaxation and stress management. Whether you perform a basic aerobic activity such as walking or biking, or if you prefer other forms of exercise such as T’ai Chi or yoga, these are all great ways to relieve stress. Other people find gardening and other light yardwork relaxing because it allows them the opportunity to take their minds off other more stressful thoughts.

Dr. Christopher B. Cooper gives the following recommendations for successful relaxation:

1. Choose a convenient time and place that is quiet and free of distractions.
2. Make yourself comfortable. Wear loose clothing, sit or lie down, remove eye-glasses.
3. Adopt a passive attitude. Maintain awareness, but let go of expectations or judgements.
4. Focus on breathing. Imagine your energy building with inspiration and dissipating with expiration.
5. Relax other body parts. Allow muscle tension to dissolve, especially in the neck, shoulders, and muscles of the face.
6. Focus the mind. Use visualization that focuses on healing or imagery of a pleasant place.
7. Practice relaxation regularly, especially in times of less stress. Learn the process.

Learning to relax is a great way to handle stressful situations. Remember that something as simple as a little exercise can help you relax.