While following either the acute or chronic stress program, incorporate the following lifestyle recommendations. They are also beneficial as general guidelines for good health.

Diet
Poor eating habits contribute to chronic stress overload. Work to establish a regular eating pattern with a meal or a healthy snack built into your daily routine every two to three hours. Key dietary recommendations include

• eliminating or restricting caffeine intake.

• eliminating or restricting alcohol intake.

• eliminating refined carbohydrates (simple sugars and starches).

• eating regular, planned meals (and snacks) in a relaxed environment.

Stress management techniques
Practice relaxation techniques for 10 to 20 minutes per day. Deep breathing exercises help activate the release of positive chemicals in the brain and adrenal glands, offsetting the effects of stress.

Exercise
Exercise helps relieve stress. Any form of moderate exercise from walking to swimming to aerobics to jogging provides this support.

Rest/Sleep
Chronic stress can actually lead to poor sleep and even insomnia, which can further deplete the body. Build a positive sleep routine into your daily schedule to ensure that you give your body the necessary time for rest and repair.

Monitor your stress levels
Take our stress evaluation on a regular basis to determine your stress level, and register the
positive changes that occur over time.