Is life moving along at warp speed and leaving you tense and out-of-sorts?
There are times in all of our lives when everything seems to demand attention – from aging parents to children demanding help for their projects and homework. So what are the secrets to handling all the pressure?

We love to talk about holding onto “an attitude of gratitude”. Optimism is a fabulous key to dealing with adversity and stress. That doesn’t mean you have to be a Pollyanna, but 75% of staying positive is learned. So, try a few new ideas with the intent of building up your personal optimism bank account.

• Remember to take time for yourself each day – even if it’s just for 1-15 minutes while you think about something you are grateful for. It will recharge your spirits and your ability to cope.
• Read something positive and ponder it several times throughout the day. Whether it’s a special book, an article or daily affirmations you receive every day in your e-mail box.
• Eliminate small things that help you to be calmer. There are many examples including simplifying your clothing, personal grooming – even your entertainment. Setting out a buffet for your guests instead of setting a formal dinner will allow everyone to enjoy, mingle and be impressed by your relaxed style.
• At least once a day, lovingly apply a good quality lotion to your skin (hands or face, etc) and narrow your entire focus to be in the moment while feeling gratitude about yourself.

But what if your stress is coming from getting ‘stuck’ in the middle – with parents AND your children demanding care at the same time! AAAGG! A positive mindset helps – especially if you’re dealing with illness, a medical crisis, etc.

• Ask for help – from family and from friends. Many of them will be more than happy to help you run errands, pick up your children from school, even pick up some groceries and drop them off at your home.
• Don’t forget to check out specific support groups – local or national. The staff and volunteers understand your issues and are a great resource for you and your family members. They can offer information, research or just an understanding ear to listen to your concerns when you are dealing with a stressful environment.

Family events like a serious, or even life-threatening, illness can cause enormous stress – far beyond busy work or normal family pressures. Experts like Dr. Brooks, an assistant clinical professor of psychology at Harvard Medical School, says that the secret to surviving extreme situations is resiliency. Resiliency is viewed as a mindset. Resilient people ask for help, they’re optimistic and they take difficulties in stride.

Al Siebert, PhD, author of The Resiliency Advantage, reminds us that "resilient people develop coping skills and strength from adversity.”

So, what’s the bottom line and what’re the secrets? Begin to develop a list of your own “de-stressors”:
• Start planning a vacation. Pin a photo of it on your bulletin board to act as an incentive. You’ll be surprised how much it will encourage you and lend focus to your days.
• Go for a walk – it’ll help tone your body, build stamina, and support your overall wellness.
• Watch a funny movie or television show. Humor is proven support for mental and physical health
• Call a friend just to visit
• Get a massage to help you relax and feel cared for
• Read a good book – even if you only take 15-30 minutes each day.
• Listen to your favorite CD – music is calming and will help stimulate a good attitude and overall wellness
• Take time to enjoy the simple task of washing your face at night with a gentle, ToxicFree cleanser and visualize “washing the day’s stress away.

These may seem like small steps, but together they can help you achieve a calmer, more relaxed lifestyle.