HELP!!! I need to know how to release stress or let go

[Therese Michele]

I have a problem on letting go of stress. I haven't figured out a way to release it. Any suggestions please! I need to relax and let go and I can't. I don't want to take an ativan. I haven't taken any, but just have them incase, you know? Thanks

[epa]

Hi Michele,

Physically & mentally what works for me is working out or doing something active where I can loosen the tightness in my muscles and it takes my mind off of whatever I'm stressed out about. You also might want to invest in getting a massage or two each week or whenever you're really stressed out. Sleeping always works wonders for me too... just taking naps after a hard day. You'll feel so refreshed when you wake up.

Spiritually I pray, read my bible and recite scripture over and over to myself until I believe it and whatever was bothering me leaves me. I also always have a song in my heart when I'm going through something. Works better than any ativan could do

[sleeplessMom]

Hi Therese, the one thing that has worked for me whether I'm at home or work or somewhere in between is the relaxation tape from the course. I've actually loaded it onto my MP3 player so always have it handy. At work sometimes I listen to it right in my office sometimes I'll go sit in my car. Sometimes I listen and do the relaxation exercises twice. If I have to many thoughts running around my head I find repeatings Lucinda's instructions to myself help clear my mind. I have ativan also but thanks to the relaxation tape I haven't taken any. When it's not convenient to listen to the MP3 player I do the breathing exercise on my own.

BTW have you consider taking up yoga, it was recommended by my doctor

[Guest]

I like to take a walk in the park.
I write down 5 things that I am grateful for in my life.
I flip through an inspiring magazine like -- Family Circle or Good Housekeeping. Sometimes I get out scissors and a glue stick and make a little collage from it just for me.