1 in 7 of us are under extreme stress

A recent survey published in many newspapers today reports that stress affects more women than men! One in seven of us feel under extreme stress with the economic climate making things worse over the last 2-3 years.

Poor diet, lack of exercise and the fast pace of life seem to make things worse with many people at the risk of high blood pressure, which can lead to strokes, the 3rd biggest killer in the UK, affecting almost 150,000 people a year.

The survey found that one fifth of people took no exercise, 40% of those surveyed saying they had no idea lack of exercise can contribute to a stroke.

Here are 10 quick and easy ways for you to lower your stress levels:

1. Go for a 30 minute walk at least 4 times a week.
2. Reduce your meat intake, especially red meat.
3. Don't worry about the past or the future - You can control the future to a certain extent and you certainly cannot control or influence the past.
4. Write down notes and plan your day/week. Don't just rely on your memory.
5. Make sure you eat sufficient carbohydrates and foods rich in Vitamin B such as potatoes, bananas, oats, avocados, beef and tuna.
6. Sit in a quiet room for 10 minutes a day, relaxing and breathing slowly.
7. Listen to classical music when you can.
8. Reduce or cut out your caffeine intake. Caffeine is a very big contributor to stress.
9. Avoid arguments if you can. You don't "have" to argue; you always have a choice. Walk away, cool down.
10. If you find that you really cannot help your stress levels then the following are two recommendations:

• Take Rescue Remedy when you get stressed. These are Bach Flower drops which you can get from most pharmacies/health stores.
• Take Anger Management every morning and night. This is a 100% guaranteed stress reducer.