How to Reduce Stress During a Recession

When economic times are tough, people often worry about money. All of that worry adds up to a lot of unnecessary stress. Try using some of the tips identified below.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Athletic Shoes and Gear
• Board Games
• Time

1. Try and get outside as much as you can. Fresh air really helps to clear your mind and allows you to focus on tasks. Take a walk in the evenings or try and get out during your lunch hour. You will be amazed at how much a little fresh air and some sun will help you!

2. Exercising is what I use the most to help lower my stress level. Whether it is running, walking, swimming, weights, team sports, etc. – exercise really helps. For those of you worried about money and paying those monthly gym fees, try exercising outdoors. If it is too cold outside, try going to a mall to walk and stretch your legs.

3. Turn off the television so you are not bombarded with all the negative news. It is still important to stay informed, but you can overdue it. The nightly news and cable stations cater to negative information, because bad news sells. You will find that they keep covering the same topics over and over if you keep watching it.

4. Spend more quality time with your family. In today’s fast paced society, we often don’t see our loved ones enough. Instead of spending money to go out to eat or to a movie, try and have a family game night instead. Remember, your children are good listeners and are able to pick up on your stress.

5. Consider donating your time, money, food, or extra items to charities or the less fortunate. Remember, there are probably a lot more people out there who are in worse shape than you. Be thankful for what you have and try not to focus on all the negatives in your life. Your body will thank you in the end!

Tips & Warnings

• Don't go for the high calorie foods when stressed. It can be very easy to eat a lot of sweets during times like these.
• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables and drink lots of water.
• Keep your children informed about economic troubles, but don't overdue it.
• If you can't control your stress, see your physician.
• Stress can cause high blood pressure and increase your chance of heart disease.
• Children pick up on their parents stress and may become stressed themselves.

Resources

• Personal Money Management

[hlthychoclitnut]

on 1/13/2009 5***** for How to Reduce Stress During a Recession.No matter how stressed/depressed I am, my mood always improves after exercise.And thinking about and helping others may sound cliche but their IS more happiness in giving as long as you are really thinking about the other person, not just doing it for how it makes YOU feel.Acts 20:35

[cadosh]

on 12/24/2008 hi,
this is a great article; I give it a 5*

[Geargirl113]

on 12/10/2008 These are great tips. Thank you for sharing.

[listenhere101]

on 11/27/2008 Great article. Recession is the number one cause of becoming stressed. All I can say is... It will soon be over.