How can I live a more relaxed life?
Here are some positive healthy habits you may want to
develop to manage stress and live a more relaxed life.
• Think ahead about what may upset you. Some things
you can avoid. For example, spend less time with
people who bother you or avoid driving in rush-hour
traffic.
• Learn to say “no.” Don’t promise too much.
• Give up the bad habits. Too much alcohol, cigarettes
or caffeine can increase stress. If you smoke, make
the decision to quit now.
• Slow down. Try to “pace” not “race.” Plan ahead and
allow enough time to get the most important things
done.
• Get enough sleep. Try to get 6 to 8 hours of sleep
each night.
• Get organized. Use “To Do” lists to help you focus
on your most important tasks. Approach big tasks
one step at a time.
Take a few minutes to
write your questions for
the next time you see
your healthcare provider.
For example:
Talk to your doctor, nurse or other
healthcare professionals. If you have
heart disease or have had a stroke,
members of your family also may be at
higher risk. It’s very important for them
to make changes now to lower their risk.
Call 1-800-AHA-USA1
(1-800-242-8721), or visit heart.org
to learn more about heart disease.
For information on stroke, call
1-888-4-STROKE (1-888-478-7653)
or visit us at StrokeAssociation.org.
We have many other fact sheets to help you make healthier choices to reduce your risk,
manage disease or care for a loved one. Visit heart.org/answersbyheart to learn more.
Knowledge is power, so Learn and Live!
HOW