Stress is an unfortunate fact of life. It’s a constant topic of conversation because in some capacity it affects all adults. Our lives are dynamic, meaning they are ever-changing, and change equals stress. Even good changes can have a stressful effect. So while there’s no way to avoid stress altogether, there are ways to cope and not let it become too destructive on your body.

But first, why is stress so hard on the body? The periods of time when you feel more overburdened than usual is when you tend to be rundown, and that’s when you get sick. This happens because your body responds to stress as though you are in danger, producing hormones that speed up your heart, make you breathe faster, and give you a burst of energy. This response is called fight-or-flight and it can be physically exhausting. To make matters worse, a by-product of stress is the feeling that your life is out of control. It can be difficult to get back on track when you’re already exhausted, so the cycle is self-perpetuating. And that’s why we’re living in a stressed out culture.

The good news is the situation is not hopeless and the tools to manage your anxiety are things that we all possess. There are four areas that you can address, either singularly or one-by-one that will aid you in the management of stress:

Simplify

Even the highest-functioning people experience moments of weariness when they’ve taken on too much. As experienced as you are at multitasking, there are times when you should just say “no”. In an effort to be agreeable, it’s easy to say “of course!” and add another thing to your list. It is important to make a conscious decision to weigh your priorities and step back from some duties. You’ll gain some much-needed downtime and perhaps afford someone else the opportunity to shine.

Declutter

Mess causes stress. The busier you are, the easier it is to allow things to accumulate until it feels like a momentous task to clean it up. If you’ve let things go, start by taking control of one small area at a time. You will be shocked at how much better you feel by having your area free from clutter, which can impact focus and productivity.

Relax

Taking time for you may feel like a luxury, but it’s so important to good health. Your downtime can be active or passive rest. Use that time to play a round of golf or tennis, take a walk, read, or enjoy an outing with friends. It’s common practice to put yourself last, but it’s to your own detriment when you don’t make time for your own wellbeing.

Sleep

While it may seem obvious, but getting enough sleep is key to managing stress. Being well rested helps give you the energy to tackle the day ahead with vigor, clarity, and focus.

Stress-Busting Foods

Food can help tame stress in several ways. Comfort foods, like a bowl of warm oatmeal, can boost serotonin levels.   Foods high in Omega-3 fats, such as salmon, pistachios and ground flaxseed, can cut levels of stress hormones. A healthy diet will help build up your immune system and lower blood pressure, both of which help you better manage the physical effects of stress.

The power to manage stress—and your own health—is in your hands.  To discover more tips to help you cope with life’s challenges and lead a healthier lifestyle, check out my book Eat Well to Be Well: Living Your Best Life Through the Power of Anti-Inflammatory Food.

Speaking of comfort food, nothing is more warm and comforting than a simple, delish 30-minute wonder!  Today’s recipe for Balsamic Chicken with Artichokes and Orzo is sure to be a new family favorite!