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22 May 2012| last updated at 12:05AM

Relax and live light



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Stress is blamed for everything in modern life — from a foul mood to diseases. Tengku Nor Azah lists down 10 possible ways to get it under control

EVEN before we reach the office, the morning traffic congestion can cause stress. No wonder that so many people start their day with little enthusiasm.

Stress can impact our productivity and quality of work. Stress also disturbs sleeping patterns, affects relationships and is a huge factor in cardiovascular diseases. So it is very important to de-stress for better physical well-being and overall happiness.

Laugh

1 - As cliche as it sounds, “laughter is the best medicine” is still relevant. A good, hearty laugh helps relieve physical tension and stress. So be funny and laugh more — it’s a great antidote for stress.

Music

2 -  Research has shown that music has a substantial effect on the body and mind. It calms the mind and puts anxiety at bay.

Impromptu getaway

3 - Call up a friend and pack an overnight bag for an impromptu getaway. Be it to the highlands where the weather is cool and the air refreshing or a frolic at the beach, a breather helps you rest and relax. Spending time on the road will also strengthen the bonds of friendship. 

Dust the books

4 - It’s time to start reading the books that you bought at book fairs. If you don’t have any, the bestseller’s section in bookstores often doesn’t disappoint. You may be surprised with what your local library has to offer too.

Exercise

5 - Cardiovascular exercises like running and swimming are great in increasing endorphins, the feel good chemicals that can boost one’s mood and relieve stress. Go for an evening run or take a dip in the pool.

Spa

6 - Pamper yourself at the spa. Get a facial or a body massage. Or have have a scrub and the whole nine yards. You’ll feel relaxed and energised after a session. No time for spa? Light some scented candles or burn essential oils in your room.

Get organised

7 - Organise bills, statements, payslips, annual reports, taxes and recipes. Putting things in order can be therapeutic and gives you peace of mind. File papers according to their respective categories and colour-code them.

Less coffee, more green

8 - Coffee may perk you up in the morning but caffeine also produces a stress hormone called norepinephrine. Cut down on your coffee intake and drink more green tea. The L-theanine in green tea has been clinically proven to have relaxation effect.

Sleep

9 - Some highly-motivated individuals may think they don’t need seven hours of sleep to function but not getting enough sleep leads to work inefficiency and the tendency to eat more, which leads to weight gain. Get enough sleep and let your body recuperate to start fresh the next day!

Cuddle up

10 - Cuddle your partner or your pet. The shared closeness will help relieve the stress and lift tension off your chest. You can even feel their heart beating in the quietness. No conversations needed.

Cuddle up

Exercise

Music

Laugh

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