How to Relieve Stress Naturally

How to De-Stress Your Spirit

Why is it that every time you feel stressed someone tells you to jot down your feelings? Well -- because it works! Writing about a traumatic event, and what you plan to do about it, reduces levels of anxiety, according to researchers at the University of Amsterdam.

Like your friend with an infectious laugh or your buddy who can belch the entire "Star-Spangled Banner." Our happiness is contingent on how connected we feel to a network of positive-thinking friends, finds a new study. "If someone you have direct contact with is happy, it increases the likelihood that you'll be happy by about 15 percent," says James H. Fowler, PhD, an associate professor of political science at the University of California at San Diego and principal investigator for the study.

No one is saying you have to be Basquiat by day and Alvin Ailey by night -- just do your own thing. "Artistic activities may reduce stress because you're able to access the creative part of your brain to express your thoughts and feelings rather than relying on words, which most of us usually do," Dr. Lausier says.

Ever notice how your dentist cranks up Chopin before jackhammering your gums? Rest assured, he's only trying to help. Studies show that playing music can reduce perceived psychological stress. Now that's reason for an encore!

Originally published in FITNESS magazine, April 2009.