Stress Relief ... At Home

1. START YOUR DAY OFF WITH BREAKFAST
   Mom was right... breakfast is the most important meal of the day.   A healthy meal in the morning will help balance your blood sugar levels and give you the sustenance you need to handle the mental and physical demands of your day.
    
2. TAKE YOUR VITAMINS
   Taking your vitamins in the morning can really help you feel less stressed throughout the day.   The four essentials are: calcium, magnesium, Vitamin C and a Vitamin B complex.
    
3. GET ADEQUATE SLEEP
   If you have a hard time falling asleep, it is time to start a calming bedtime routine.  Relax with a hot cup of chamomile tea and a light novel.  Do NOT watch the news right before you go to bed.
    
4. SPA YOURSELF
   Start your at-home spa treatments with a luxurious spa facial including a microdermabrasion treatment.   Then give yourself an instant manicure and pedicure.   Apply your lip mask, put the cucumber eye pads over your eyes, sit back, relax and say spaaaaaaa. 

5. TAKE A BATH
   Baths are like decompression chambers that prepare the mind and spirit for deeper relaxation... a bridge between the real work and a place of serenity. 
    
6. HAVE A CUP OF TEA
   Whether it is chamomile or chai, try to take time, relax and put your feet up while enjoying your favorite brew.   In the warmer months, why not chill a pot of your favorite fresh-brewed tea for a calming and cooling treat.
    
7. RELAXING MUSIC
   Background music, played quietly, can help you to remain calm throughout your day and evening. 

8. DO A PUZZLE
   If you need to downshift your stress levels, try a challenging puzzle.   It will take your mind off of what is stressing your out if you have to put your total concentration into something else.
    
9. VISUALIZATION
   Close your eyes and visualize your own personal paradise.  Immerse yourself in the setting... what do you see around you?... what sounds do you hear?   Go ahead... escape.
10. TAKE A TV BREAK
    Watch a television program that allows you to escape to another world.
     
11. ENJOY TIME WITH FAMILY
    Play a game, take a walk, watch a heart-warming family movie, or just sit and talk.
     
12. DO SOME HOUSEWORK
    Okay, while this may not  be fun, it will take your mind away from your stress -- and after an hour, you will probably be glad to get back to what you were doing.
      
13. GET SOME SUN
    After being indoors so much, it is good to get out in the sun.  Sunshine is a very good anti-depressant.  But, remember to wear proper SPF protection.
      
14. CALL A FRIEND
    This can be a great way to lift you spirits.   Stay away from any negative talk.   Go ahead... laugh.
     
15. GIVE YOURSELF A "TIME-OUT"
    Lock the door, turn the phone ringers off, and for 15 to 20 minutes do something just for you.