Stress relief
Learning Center
Does zinc work for colds?
The jury is still out on that question because many zinc studies, both those that find it beneficial and those that don't, are flawed. In studies with positive results, zinc lozenges or syrup appeared to shorten a cold by one day and seemed most effective when taken within 24 hours of the start of symptoms. Taking zinc lozenges with food may reduce side effects, such as a bad taste and nausea. Steer clear of zinc nasal spray, however, which may permanently damage your sense of smell.
Say no, to say yes to less stress
Is your plate piled too high with deadlines and obligations? Are you trying to cram too many activities into too little time? If so, you may find stress relief by learning how to say no to others and yes to yourself. Don't make up reasons to get out of an obligation. The truth is always the best way to turn down a friend, family member or co-worker. But let them down gently. Compliment the person's or group's effort while saying that you're unable to commit at this time. It will soften the blow and keep you in good graces.
Laugh more, stress less
Humor can help reduce stress by providing a positive way of looking at problems. Humor can also help you perceive what's ridiculous or absurd in a situation. To promote humor in your life, follow these steps: 1. Be open to humor. Give yourself permission to laugh, even during tough times. 2. Surround yourself with humor. Try hanging cartoons in your workstation. 3. Seek out humor. Look for humor in everyday situations. Or watch a favorite comedy DVD. 4. Share your humor. Tell a funny true story to a co-worker or friend.
Stress and headaches: Stop the cycle
Stress can make your head hurt, and a headache can really stress you out. Either way, you can rein in the pain with these tips to keep stress under control: 1. Simplify. Ask yourself what really needs to be done and what can be dropped. 2. Delegate. Look over your to-do list and delegate what you can. 3. Laugh. Staying positive with humor is a great way to relieve stress. 4. Relax. When you feel your muscles begin to tense, breathe deeply. Focus on inhaling and exhaling deeply and slowly for at least 10 minutes. 5. Exercise. Regular exercise provides a healthy break from the stress of daily life.
Have you had a good laugh today?
Humor is a great way to relieve stress. Laughter releases endorphins, natural substances that help you feel better and maintain a positive attitude. Go ahead. Give it a try. Hang funny photos or comic strips in your work space. Make it a habit to spend time with friends who make you laugh. Who knows? Laugh and the world might laugh with you.
Don't believe shaving myths
Contrary to popular belief, shaving hair doesn't make it grow back thicker. And shaving doesn't affect how dark your hair is or how fast it grows. Shaving facial or body hair gives the hair a blunt tip that can feel coarse as the hair grows out. During this phase, the hair might appear darker or thicker, but it's not.
Fall prevention: Simple tips to prevent falls
Have you ever tripped down the stairs? Slipped on a rug? It may seem silly, but falls are nothing to take lightly. Here are tips to fall-proof your home: 1. Keep electrical cords out of walking paths. 2. Securely fasten carpet, rugs and carpet runners to the floor. 3. Keep walkways and stairways free of clutter. 4. Use nonslip mats in the bathtub or shower.
Perfect holiday? Forget about it!
Adding extensive preparations, such as shopping, baking and entertaining, to your usual daily demands can take the joy out of the holidays. Instead, consider scaling back. Focus on the holiday traditions you enjoy most, and skip the rest. Accept imperfections in yourself and in others. Embrace the holiday season with peace and good cheer.
Dreading a family holiday gathering?
Family tension often runs high during the holiday season. Consider this a time to set differences aside. Try to accept loved ones as they are, even if they don't live up to all your expectations. And be understanding if others get upset or distressed when something goes awry. Chances are they're feeling the effects of holiday stress too.
Holidays don't have to break the bank
Before the holiday shopping season starts, decide how much you can afford to spend. If money is tight, try these alternatives: Suggest drawing names for a family gift exchange. Make gifts, such as certificates for a home-cooked meal or an evening of baby-sitting. Donate canned goods to a local food shelf in lieu of gifts. Remember, the best parts of the holiday season rarely come wrapped in a box. Treasured memories are the gifts that last.
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