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Stress is a major culprit of health problems in today’s world and may be responsible for more than we ever imagined. We all face different challenges and some people deal with them better than others, although almost everyone gets stressed out at one time or another. Small doses of stress may actually be a good thing as it can push you to make deadlines or light a much needed fire to do your best on a project. Unfortunately many people are unable to keep stress levels to a minimum which can be devastating to your health. Stress is a physiological and psychological reaction to events in our lives. It is basically just the body’s form of defence when life becomes overwhelming. Stress can become a hindrance to quality of life because its health effects are so wide spread. It can cause anything from memory loss and headaches to insomnia, weight gain, and depression. So how do you keep stress levels at a health minimum? Here are five quick and easy tips that everyone can use to de-stress.

1. Treat yourself regularly. Think of something that is rewarding to you, whether it be a foot soak or an ice cream Sunday. Whatever it is, make sure that you let yourself enjoy it on a regular basis. If you can’t afford to go to a spa try cheap and simple at home treatments such as rubbing olive oil on your feet for do-it-yourself pedicure.

2. Take a bath. A hot bath can do wonders for stress levels. You cannot help but relax in a bath and forget about your day. Adding essential oils such as lavender will also help you sleep easy.

3. Exercise. Exercise is not only great for you physically but psychologically. Even a short walk or run will get the blood flowing and decrease stress levels.

4. Drink tea. Tea, especially green tea, contains high amounts of polyphenols which are potent antioxidants.

5. Get enough rest. Getting a minimum of 7 hours of sleep each night will ensure you are well rested to take on the next day and may help manage stress levels. If stress is keeping you awake at night talk to your doctor.

Though life can be difficult at times try to stay positive. Having a positive attitude and reminding yourself about what you do have instead of what you don’t have is a sure fire way to cope with every day stresses. Try to remember not to sweat the small stuff as your health is much more important than finishing a stressful work assignment or passing an exam.