How to take off some pressure:

Too much stress can weaken your immune system, raise your blood pressure and increase the risk of a heart attack. Yet perhaps worst of all, stress can spoil the simple pleasure of enjoying each day as it comes.

The good news is that you can take action to make your days go more smoothly - at work or at home. Remind yourself of these familiar tips:

Talk it out

Develop support networks at home and at work. Even though you've gained a positive attitude and you're working on exercise and healthy living, you still need a strong support network.

Airing your feelings and sharing your experiences with others helps you get rid of your feelings of isolation.

Keep your talks positive and constructive.

Gain some control

Of course, we can't all be our own boss, but we can gain some control over every day stresses. Get more involved in how you perform the work or activities. Rearrange things to make them easier. And by all means try to eliminate the most frustrating parts of it. Your involvement helps you improve the way you work and that gives you a greater sense of control.

Keep moving

Countless studies have shown that simple and regular activities such as walking, jogging or swimming will do the trick. Getting as little activity as 30 minutes a day, three times a week, gives you a feeling of calm and control. Move at your own pace, but keep moving. In cold weather, dress the part, but stick to your activity schedule except on really bad weather days.

Take five

Plan breaks to break the tension cycle. Just closing your eyes and repeating a favorite phrase will do it. This kind of meditation helps lower your breathing rate and decrease levels of lactate - a chemical associated with muscle tension.

Medication also helps your body to react less to the stress hormone adrenaline.

Information courtesy Saskatchewan Health.