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Stress is a major problem in the world, rapidly becoming an epidemic. Everyone handles stress differently. Some people thrive on it and seem to shake off the negative effects of stress. Other people suffer serious consequences such as headaches, illness and more. Over long period of times, stress will cause physical damage to your body. The following eight top tips will help you to live a more stress free life. 1) Take some exercise. Exercise is a great way to shake off the negative effects of stress, plus when you are fitter, stress has less of a negative effect on you. Even as little as 20 minutes of exercise a day will have a beneficial effect on your stress levels. Whether it is jogging, cycling, swimming, walking or anything else, it will have a positive effect on your life. 2) Takes some YOU time. With careers, lives and family, taking time out for yourself can be very difficult to get. Whether you have a relaxing bath, go for a walk or just sit in a comfy chair with a newsp...

Containing three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber, a banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. Depression : According to a recent survey amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier. Anemia : High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.   Blood Pressure : This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it the perfect way to beat high blood pressure. Constipation : High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxativ...

Recent trends suggest that people of this digital age are suffering from Computer Stress Syndrome (CSS)... Do you feel lost and disgusted as soon as something goes wrong with your computer or laptop? Or do you feel like throwing your slick new handset if it’s not functioning smoothly for a brief while? If yes, you are suffering from something called Computer Stress Syndrome (CSS). According to a recent study, more than ninety per cent of people depend so heavily on computers and other gadgets in their personal lives that the moment something goes wrong, they just panic. Facing continuous technical anxiety and challenge in setting up new computer products, keeping up with software upgrades and migrating to new applications; or dealing with malware infections and web threats, is creating unnecessary anguish and anxiety. That’s not surprising though. After all, modern technology, which has made our lives easier, is like a double-edged sword. It’s not a cakewalk to understand the lates...

They don’t say health is wealth just like that. If you’re among those who take their health for granted, it’s time you change your outlook. In life, there are very few things that are as important as your health. So, look after it well. And these rules will help you do just that... EXERCISE If you aren’t a gym person, there are plenty of exercises that you can do in the comfort of your own home. Try and get a couple of your friends together and workout in someone’s home a couple of times a week. If that’s not possible, then join an aerobics or kick-boxing class together. The motivation you receive from your friend will be an added bonus. Another task that you could do is walk. Walking for 30 minutes everyday has numerous benefits. DANCE It’s okay if you have two left feet. It’s fine if you look funny when you attempt to dance. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. There are innumerable dance classes all over the city that offer to teach you different styles. Not only will you lear...

Deep Breathing, PMR and the Relaxation Response   Physical relaxation techniques are as effective as mental techniques in reducing stress. In fact, the best relaxation is achieved by using physical and mental techniques together.   These three useful physical relaxation techniques can help you reduce muscle tension and manage the effects of the fight-or-flight response on your body. This is particularly important if you need to think clearly and perform precisely when you are under pressure.   The techniques we will look at are Deep Breathing, Progressive Muscular Relaxation and “The Relaxation Response”. Deep Breathing   Deep breathing is a simple, but very effective, method of relaxation. It is a core component of everything from the "take ten deep breaths" approach to calming someone down, right through to yoga relaxation and Zen meditation. It works well in conjunction with other relaxation techniques such as Progressive Muscular Relaxation, relaxation imagery...

For ages, people have tried several ways to quit smoking While some have helped, some result in deprivation and a relapse eventually, leading people to take it up again. We suggest some foolproof tips. Why should you quit? A not-good-for-health reason may not be enough to quit. You need to have a strong reason, which can overpower the urge to smoke. It could be loved ones, the need to look or feel younger, or the frightening thought of cancer. Quitting at one go Ideally one should avoid this as the brain gets deprived of the nicotine it’s been subjected to for so long, leading to frustration, depression and anger. It may also lead to one taking up the habit again. Instead, slowly let go. Opt for nicotine chewing gums and patches. However, these aren’t recommended if you’re still smoking. Certain prescription pills help curb the urge to light up and control depression that occurs while quitting. Ask for encouragement Talking to friends and family about your decision to quit...