Taking Physical Action
Physical activities can complement your mental and emotional strategies
of stress management:
■ Exercise regularly. The human stress response is intended to
end in physical activity; exercise “burns off” stress hormones by
directing them toward their intended metabolic function66 and
can combat stress by raising levels of endorphins—mood-elevating,
painkilling hormones—in the bloodstream.
■ Get enough sleep. Adequate sleep allows you to cope with multiple
stressors more effectively, and be more productive.
■ Learn to relax. You can use simple relaxation techniques at any
time. As your body relaxes, your heart rate slows and your blood
pressure and metabolic rate decrease.
■ Eat healthfully. A balanced, healthy diet will help provide the
stamina you need to get through problems while stress-proofing
you in ways not yet fully understood. Undereating, overeating,
and eating the wrong foods can create distress in the body. In
particular, avoid sympathomimetics, foods that produce (or
mimic) stresslike responses, such as caffeine.