Good Strategies For Reducing Stress
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Think about the times in your life when you've felt stress: maybe while giving a presentation at work, worrying about your children, racing to meet a deadline, or arguing with your spouse. Do you remember how your heart was pounding and your breathing got heavier? This kind of physical response to emotional stress and anxiety is not good for your heart. Some researchers believe that limiting stress may help to reduce a person's risk of heart disease. That's why everyone, especially those who have been diagnosed with heart disease, should try to keep stress under control.

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Good Strategies For Reducing Stress

• Take 15 to 20 minutes a day to sit quietly, breathe deeply and think of a peaceful scene.
  
• Learn to accept things you can't change. You don't have to solve all of life's problems.
  
• Count to 10 before answering or responding when you feel angry.
  
• Don't use smoking, drinking, overeating, drugs or caffeine to cope with stress. These will actually make things worse.
  
• Exercise regularly. Do something you enjoy, like walking, swimming, jogging, golfing, walking a pet, tai chi or cycling. Check with your doctor to determine what activity level is right for you.
  
• Look for the good in stuations instead of the bad.
  
• Think ahead about what may upset you and try to avoid it. For example, spend less time with people who bother you. If you're still working or volunteering, cut back on your hours and adjust your schedule so you can avoid driving in rush-hour traffic.
  
• Plan out productive solutions to problems. For example, talk with your neighbor if the dog next door bothers you, and set clear limits on how much you'll do for family members and friends.
  
• Learn to say no. Don't promise too much. Give yourself enough time to get things done.
  
• Emotional health plays an important role in physical health, especially if you have been diagnosed with heart disease. Consult a psychiatrist or other mental health professional if you need help dealing with stress, anxiety or depression. Ask your doctor, family or friends for their advice. If they can't help, ask your minister, rabbi or a hospital social worker for some names.

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Stay in Touch for Your Good Health.
If you have heart disease, members of your family also may be at higher risk. It’s very important for them to make changes now to lower their risk.

For more in-depth information about the effects of high cholesterol and lowering your risk of heart disease through diet and exercise, CLICK HERE. We also have a special section of heart healthy recipes that are sure to please.