By now, you should know that stress is something that can be controlled through diet and exercise. This article describes other ways to keep stress under control. Which of the recommendations in this article do you currently use to manage stress? If you don’t use any of the recommendations, what other techniques work for you? If you don’t use any stress-reduction techniques, write about one or more of the recommendations that you could foresee using in the future. Under what circumstances might you use the techniques? Your response to these questions should be two to three paragraphs long, with about 50 to 100 words per paragraph.

Learn to relax. The body's natural antidote to stress is called the relaxation response. It's the opposite of stress, and is a feeling of well-being and calm. You can activate the relaxation response simply by relaxing. Learn and practice easy breathing exercises, then use them when you're caught up in stressful situations.

Make time for fun. Build time into your schedule for activities you enjoy — read a good book, play with your pet, laugh, do a hobby, make art or music, spend time with positive people, or be in nature.

Treat your body well. Get regular exercise and eat well to help your body function at its best. When you're stressed out, it's easy to eat on the run or eat junk food. But under stressful conditions, you need good nutrition more than ever.

Find the upside. Your outlook, attitude, and thoughts influence the way you see things. Is your cup half full or half empty? A healthy dose of optimism can help you make the best of stressful circumstances — and even recognize something you've learned from the situation.

Solve the little problems. Take action to solve problems that crop up. For example, if you're stressed out over homework, size up the situation and figure out ways to handle it better.

Build positive relationships. Knowing that there are people who believe in us boosts our ability to deal with challenges. Ask for help and support when you need it. Share what you're going through — including the good things that are happening.

You can do things to handle the stress that comes along with any new challenge, good or bad. Stress-management skills work best when they're practiced ahead of time, not just when the pressure's on. Knowing how to "de-stress" and calm yourself can help you get

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