Stress has a nasty way of creeping into our daily lives and playing havoc with our health and our emotions. When we're overstressed, we suddenly have less patience for those around us. We're irritable, and sometimes even angry. Our health begins to suffer as we catch more colds, the flu and infections. Headaches become commonplace as do tummy troubles. We're tired and anxious. Stress can suck the health and the happiness right out of our lives.



So, how do we fight back and regain control of our health, our emotions and our stress levels? Try some of these common stress reducers.

Get Enough Sleep.

Our bodies need proper sleep (at least 6-8 hours for the average adult), in order to remain healthy and strong. Without proper rest, we may find it difficult to handle the things that stress us out the most.

Take Time To Relax and Have Fun.

Playing baseball, going for a walk, sitting on the deck reading a book, these are all things that can help alleviate stress by giving our minds and body the time to relax from the everyday grind. Treat yourself to 15 to 30 minutes of "me" time every day to do something that you really enjoy.

Take Regular Vacations.

There's nothing quite as invigorating than getting away from the daily grind at regular intervals. Taking a vacation doesn't have to be expensive. Even taking a day or two to go visit faraway friends and family can be very relaxing for mind and body.

Learn a New Relaxation Technique.

Take a yoga class. Read a book about relaxation. Listen to soothing music. Always be on the lookout for new ways to add a little peace to your life and relieve your stress.

Evaluate Your Work Load.

Nothing can be more stressful than a demanding job, or one we don't even like anymore. When the office has become a place that you dread heading to every morning, it may be time to look for a more peaceful and enjoyable work experience. In the meantime, try to organize your time and workload better to ease the stress at work.

Take Time To Socialize.

Sometimes we get so busy with work responsibilities, kids and our home life,

we forget to call a good friend for a chat, or head to a local restaurant for breakfast with the gang. Take time to rejuvenate your spirit by spending quality time with good friends.

Surround Yourself With Comfort.

Maybe you live in a one-bedroom apartment, or a luxurious townhouse. Either way, surround yourself with things and colors that make you feel good. Love to wrap yourself in a warm fuzzy towel after a hot shower? Can't resist a specialty chocolate, but never buy it? Allow yourself to splurge on a few small things that bring comfort and peace into your life.

Our lives will always be filled with stress. The trick to combating it is to take time out for ourselves, indulge in a few comforting things we love and allow ourselves the freedom to say no to the business of life, and enjoy the people and things we already have.