Stress is a normal part of life. Learning to use it to your advantage help you lead a healthy and productive life. 

How Stress Can Help You

Stress is a natural response to a threatening situation. If you're on a hike and see a bear, your body will experience a stress response that boosts your heart rate and awareness. It helps you stay alive. 

Stress can also be a good motivator and, when managed, it will push you towards your goals. When approaching a deadline, for example, the right amount of stress can keep you focused and determined to finish on time. 

Too Much Stress Can Be Harmful

Unfortunately, many of us are in a constant state of stress. The pressures of daily life in a fast-paced society can take its toll. 

Too much stress can have adverse effects such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression, which impacts your health and may increase your risk of chronic illness such as heart disease. 

Therefore, it's important to learn to manage your stress levels and maintain a healthy balance. 

Tips to Help Manage Stress

There are many ways you can manage stress. Here are just a few. 

Get Some Exercise

Exercising is one of the best ways to get your stress under control. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which calm you and make you feel good.  Exercising can help burn off that nervous energy, too.

Get More Sleep

When you're well-rested, you're better able to cope and feel less overwhelmed. To sleep better, avoid stimulants like caffeine and take the time to wind down before bed.  Also, practice going to bed and getting up at the same time each day. 

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Practicing yoga, meditating, and deep breathing exercises will help reduce stress. Conscious breathing helps lower your heart rate and slows everything down, too. 

Avoid Stress-Inducing Situations

Identify what situations stress you out and find a different approach. If parties make you feel stressed, look for other social activities. By understanding what causes you stress and adopting techniques to manage it better, you can lead a healthy, balanced life.