Happiness Makeover: Part 3

According to the American Institute of Stress, more than 110 million Americans take medication for stress related causes. The holidays only increase stress levels and bring on the blue Christmases. So what's my advice? Plan for stress. If you know it's coming you can create an emergency escape route! Here are today's escapes:

Morning Do a crossword puzzle. Find it in your favorite newspaper, magazine or print one off your computer. having something fun to do will help take your mind off stress triggers.



Midmorning treat Hug someone. It is a natural stress and pain reliever. A simple embrace can also trigger a flood of endorphins!



Midday Try a yoga class. Practicing downward dog can lower your heart rate.

Afternoon treat Pet a dog--it may bring down your blood pressure. Just make sure it's not a stray with some form of rabies!





Evening Get some shut-eye. Missing out on a good night's rest (8 hours) makes you feel uptight and may lead to binge eating.





De-Stress Homework Write about something that is bugging you. Don't mince words Use extra paper if you need to. Then tear it up.