For many people, the holidays are a stressful time of year. Unexpected guests dropping by, entertaining relatives, and finding the perfect gift on everyone’s list are all daunting tasks. To add even more to the holiday pressure, we must still deal with our day-to-day tasks and responsibilities. Talk about unwanted stress!

Stress is the body’s normal form of defense. When faced with danger or discomfort, your body reacts in a ‘fight or flight’ mode as a form of protection. If your body is subjected to constant, repetitive and stressful situations, without time to restore itself, your health could suffer.

In a recent study, WebMd.com found:

• *43% of all adults suffer adverse health effects from stress

• *75% to 90% of all doctor's office visits are stress-related ailments and complaints

• *Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) declares stress a hazard of the workplace

• *Stress costs the American industry more than $300 billion annually

In order to avoid the potentially harmful effects stress can place on your body, there are some simple steps that you can take to help manage your stress levels:

• *Stay Positive – Is the glass half empty or half full? Always try to see the positive side of things. Jot down all of the positive things happening in your life. Focus your attention on them.

• *Exercise – Just ten minutes on an elliptical machine or a brisk walk around the block will be sure to boost your feel-good endorphins.

• *Stretch – Stand tall and stretch those arms in the air. Take a few deep breaths and release the tension from your body.

• *Acceptance – Remember that some things are simply out of your control. You are only responsible for what is under your direction.

• *Breathe – Take a deep breath in through your nose and exhale through your mouth. When you breathe in, feel your lungs fill with oxygen as your chest expands. A few deep slow breaths will help send you to a state of calm.

• *Walk – Remove yourself from the situation, get outside and take a ten-minute walk. Clear your mind and take in the natural beauty of your surroundings.

• *Supplement – Studies show that people who eat a diet rich in omega-3’s have an easier time dealing with stressful situations. The fatty acids (EPA and DHA) found in omega-3’s have proven to help the body maintain healthy levels of serotonin. Serotonin helps control emotional responses and create a sense of well-being. By supplementing your diet with an ultra-refined, ultra-concentrated fish oil like Sealogix, you can take a positive step in coping with stress in a healthier way.

The holidays should be a joyful time of the year to spend with family and friends. Enjoy every day to its fullest, by simply helping the stress to leave your body as quickly as it entered.