One way to manage the stress you feel is to live a healthy life. Physical fitness, a nutritious diet and plenty of rest are three of your best defense mechanisms against stress. They will keep your mind and body healthy, reducing your susceptibility to the negative effects of stress. Even better, the rewards of a healthy life extend beyond effective stress management.

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Exercise

Thousands of studies have proven that regular exercise reduces your reaction to stressful events. And regular exercise improves your overall health, making your body more resistant to the wear and tear of chronic stress.

Exercise is a great stress weapon because it releases natural painkillers (called endorphins) that help dull the effects of stress. It increases your blood flow and makes you feel more energized, so you won't feel defeated when faced with a stressful event. You'll be prepared to fight. In addition, exercise can:

• Provide a distraction from the stress in your life
• Help reduce excessive (negative) energy resulting from stress
• Help you stay calm and regulate your emotions
• Make you feel more able to handle challenges

It takes about 15 to 20 minutes of exercise before the endorphins have noticeable effects. The effects peak after about 45 minutes. Although aerobic exercise, such as running, has been shown to have the greatest influence on stress levels, any type of exercise can help. Even low-impact exercises, such as yoga and meditation, are great ways to combat stress.

It is important, however, that you exercise consistently. You must engage in exercise on a regular basis for it to be effective against stress. Try for at least 20 minutes a couple of days a week.

Many people, when stressed, cut back on their exercise because they feel as if they have no energy. But there is no better way to fight stress. So do whatever you can to incorporate regular exercise into your life.

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A Healthy Diet

A well-balanced, nutritious diet is a great way to stay motivated. Although you may want to reach for comfort food at times of stress, you're better off reaching for something nutritious. Consider it good medicine. A healthy diet can help reduce the level of stress that you feel.

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The Importance Of Rest

One symptom of stress is difficulty sleeping. Fatigue leaves you more susceptible to suffering the health effects of stress.

Do your best to overcome this by creating a comfortable sleep environment and allocating enough time for sleep. A good night of sleep gives you more energy for warding off the negative effects of stress. You'll be better prepared to fight the demons of the day.

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