Stress can cause stomach aches, headaches, muscle aches and pain. Our mind and body are connected, and how we react to stressors play a major role in our energy, illnesses, and overall health.

Popping a pain reliever, stuffing our feelings, or pretending there is no connection to our feelings and physical health on a daily basis is detrimental to your health. Over time your health will experience a slow deterioration and major health problems can occur. Don’t let this happen to you.

75 to 90 percent of all physician office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.
Stress is linked to the six leading causes of death–heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis of the liver, and suicide.
Start with these tips to handle and relieve stress.

• Get enough sleep. Sleep habits are important and making it a priority is essential.
• Exercise and implement the 90/10 rule; eat healthy 90% of the time, and 10% enjoy your favorite treats.
• Make time for friendships and set aside weekly enjoyment of conversation and fun with them.
• Create peaceful times in your day.  You are a priority and this is not selfish, it is necessary for a healthy life!
• Try different relaxation methods until you find one that works for you. Here are some examples: listen to soothing music, walk in a park or on a tree lined trail, soak in a bath tub,  get a massage, stare out the window, or just close your eyes for 20 minutes.
• Create boundaries with friends and family that cause you stress. You stay in control by allowing yourself to say “no” to them, or avoid their negativity by not associating with them as much as possible.
• Don’t drink too much or overeat. Especially refined sugars and simple carbs. This is especially tough this time of year, but will pay big dividends both now and later.

Learn here how stress impacts your life and how to manage it. Start now the management of stress, even when it can be at an all time high this time of year!