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Select from these mood improving techniques and strategies: |
 Assert yourself. You do not have to meet others' expectations or demands. Assert your feelings, opinions, or beliefs instead of becoming angry, defensive, or passive.
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Keep a positive attitude. Laugh often.
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Exercise regularly. Choose non-competitive exercise and set reasonable goals. Aerobic exercise has been shown to release endorphins (natural substances that help you feel better and maintain a positive attitude).
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Seek out social support. Spend time with those you enjoy.
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Set realistic goals and expectations. It's okay, and healthy, to realize you cannot be 100% successful at everything at once. Accept that there are events that you cannot control.
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Make time for hobbies, interests, and relaxation.
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Eat healthy, sensible, well-balanced meals. Alcohol and food abuse may seem to reduce stress, but it actually adds to it.
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Learn and practice relaxation techniques; try meditation, yoga, or tai-chi for stress management. Combine opposites; a time for deep relaxation and a time for aerobic exercise is a sure way to protect your body from the effects of stress.
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Sell yourself to yourself. When you are feeling overwhelmed, remind yourself of what you do well. Have a healthy sense of self-esteem.
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Get enough rest and sleep. Your body needs time to recover from stressful events.
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Stop smoking. Aside from the obvious health risks of cigarettes, nicotine acts as a stimulant and brings on more stress symptoms.
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Learn to manage your time more effectively. Don't procrastinate.
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Seek treatment with a psychologist or other mental health professional trained in stress management or biofeedback techniques to learn healthy ways of dealing with the stress in your life.
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Examine your values and live by them. The more your actions reflect your beliefs, the better you will feel, no matter how busy your life is. Use your values when choosing your activities.
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