• Breathing exercises
• Progressive relaxation
• Visualisation - (visualise yourself on the beach or some other enjoyable place)
• Listen to music and / or relaxation tapes (you can buy them or record your own)
• Refute irrational ideas (is what you just told yourself really true?)
• Various spiritual or religious practices (prayer, reflection, meditation, contemplation)
• Practice gratitude (and try to forgive)
• Avoid people and situation(s) that causes stress (to the extent possible). Pare down your to-do list
• Call a good friend or find other ways to connect with others (share your feelings)
• Engage in realistic goal setting and time management. Practice assertiveness and boundary setting (learn to say No). Stop trying to control the uncontrollable.
• Keep your sense of humour
• Practice good nutrition - eating a healthy diet makes us better prepared to cope with stress. Get enough sleep.
• Sweat the stress out through exercise (take a run or walk, stretch, do yoga, lift weights)
• Make time for fun and relaxation. Take a hot bath, get a massage, play with a pet, work in your garden, curl up with a good book, write in your journal, spend time in nature. Nurturing yourself is a necessity, not a luxury - only you can take care of yourself - no one else can do this for you.
• Other ideas?

Effective stress management involves a variety of techniques that can help you cope with life's pressures in a healthier way. Below, please answer the questions to build your own stress management plan.