With the pace of modern life, stress and tension is becoming an increasing problem. All too often, we look for some drug or medication to reduce our stress levels, or turn to other crutches such as cigarettes or alcohol to help us deal with a stressful situation. Before considering any of these, there are a number of very simple techniques that can be used to reduce your levels of stress and tension.

The following suggestions are easy and free ways you can use to start managing the stress in your life.

1. Look at your lifestyle and see what can be changed in your work situation, your family life, or your work schedule. Try to get a balanced between your work commitments and your leisure time.

2. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or massage.

3. Take some exercise. Physical activity has been shown to be very effective in reducing stress levels.

4. Improve your Time Management and planning skills. Setting yourself unrealistic targets that can never be achieved is a sure way of increasing your stress levels. Use simple techniques such as checklists to break up major tasks or projects into smaller steps. As you work through the tasks, you will gain greater satisfaction from the progress you are making and what you may have first thought of as a stressful, daunting task becomes much more manageable.

5. Watch what you eat. Too much alcohol, caffeine, sugar, fats and tobacco can all affect your body's ability to deal with stress. A well balanced diet containing a range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and high protein, low fat foods will help you maintain a healthy body. Go to your local library to find books on healthy eating if you don't know where to start.

6. Get enough sleep. It's important that your body has enough rest to recharge your batteries and give you the energy to deal with any stressful situations.

7. Talk things over with others. The old saying can be true - a problem shared is a problem halved. Talk to your partner, friends or relatives about what is causing your stress.

8. Get involved. Participating in voluntary work or in projects within your community can be a great way to combat stress.

9. Take a break. Give yourself time to relax by reading a book, watch a movie, play a game, listen to music or take a relaxing holiday break.

10.Get active. Any form of physical activity such as gardening, home improvements etc. is a great way to reduce stress.

11. Try to Compromise. Don't always try to come out on top of a situation. It's much less stressful to give in occasionally and avoid a confrontation.

12. Don't aim for perfection. Always trying to be perfect is an impossible target that can bring on a great deal of stress. Ease up a little and see your stress levels reduce.

13. Avoid criticising other people. This type of behaviour can be very destructive and stress inducing.

14. Have some fun. Spend some time with people you love, doing things you really enjoy.

By trying some of these simple techniques, you should be well on the way to managing the stress in your life more effectively.