10 Stress Management Techniques

Help Guide explains that the ultimate goal when fighting stress is to lead a balanced life. Try to identify the causes of stress in your life, and utilize a variety of techniques to combat them. Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine, warns that if your own stress management techniques don't work for you, seek out a professional who can help you cope.

Physical Activity
According to Medline Plus, physical activity is a good way to fight the feelings associated with stress. Plan your schedule to fit in at least 20 minutes of activity, three times a week. The type of physical activity does not matter, as long as you're moving around. Try teaming up with a buddy for additional motivation.

Healthy Diet
Stress can be related to an improper diet, so healthy eating and nutrition is key to combating stress. Medline Plus recommends increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat, while focusing on controlled portion sizes.

Socialization
Medline Plus advises socializing to combat stress. Stress can sometimes lead you to want to avoid your friends. However, interacting with friends and family can boost your mood and take your mind off of anything that causes stress.

Avoid Stress
According to Help Guide, one of the best ways to control your stress level is to avoid known stress-inducing situations. Avoid people who cause you stress. Additionally, avoid places that may stress you out. For example, if crowds stress you out, avoid the mall or amusement parks. Also, avoid discussing topics that cause you stress. If political debates bother you, don't engage in them.

Be Willing to Adjust
Help Guide explains that you need to be willing to adjust to situations to combat potential stress. Be willing to compromise instead of fighting for your own way. However, if necessary, be more assertive and stand up for yourself and your opinions. Don't let yourself be walked all over, as that can lead to an excess of stress.

Look at the Bigger Picture
Help Guide also recommends looking at the bigger picture, as focusing on smaller, specific situations can often lead to negative thinking. Focus on the positive and try to find the silver lining in every situation. Positive thinking can go a long way in fighting stress.

Acceptance
Sometimes it is important to just accept the things you cannot change, according to Help Guide. Not everything in life can be controlled, and attempting to do so will only result in undue stress. Additionally, Help Guide suggests learning to forgive as a way to cope with stress. Holding grudges can be tiresome and upsetting; forgive people and move on.

Be Healthy
In addition to physical activity and overall nutrition, Help Guide suggests maintaining an overall healthy lifestyle. This means that you should limit drinking, quit smoking and avoid drugs. Unhealthy habits can cause illnesses that can increase stress levels; try to be healthy to decrease stress.

Learn to Say "No"
Over-committing to too many things is a fairly common cause of stress. Learn to say no; only take on as many activities as you can fit into your schedule, while still making time for yourself. Cut down on the number of things you put on your to do list. Forcing yourself to do too many things will only make you feel run down and stressed out.

Relax
Help Guide suggests finding a hobby or activity that you enjoy that will allow you to release stress and enjoy yourself. Read a book every week, join a yoga class, get a massage, take a bath, go for a walk, or play with a pet. Whatever you do, just make sure it's enjoyable and relaxing.