Stress relief
Learning Center
Do you have a living will?
Life-threatening situations can happen to anyone, so it's important to have a living will or other advance directive. These documents spell out your preferences regarding medical treatments you would or would not want to keep you alive. You can also outline your preferences for other medical decisions, such as pain management or organ donation. By planning ahead, you can get the medical care you want and save your family from having to make tough decisions in a crisis.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is healthy aging in your genes?
Sure, your genes affect your health. But your lifestyle, your environment and even chance may matter even more. What you eat, how much you exercise, how you manage stress, how much sleep you get and whether you smoke all play a role in whether you develop a heart condition. Stack the cards in your favor with healthy lifestyle choices.
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.
Learn to say no and enjoy the holidays
The holidays can be a stressful time, with many additional events and obligations. Choose your commitments wisely. Saying yes when you should say no can leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and family will understand if you can't participate in every activity. If it's not possible to say no when your boss asks you to work overtime, try to remove something else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.
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