Did you know that stress may be responsible for many of your health problems? Stress can cause headaches, stomach aches, high blood pressure, depression and even weight gain. There are numerous ways one can manage stress to reduce and prevent these health problems. 

    One of those ways is exercise! When you exercise your body naturally releases endorphins, which are “feel good” chemicals. These “feel good” chemicals combat the bad chemicals produced in your body when you are under stress.  Exercise not only lowers your stress level, but it can lower your waist size as well. Some good forms of exercise are walking, biking or dancing. If you are just starting out try exercising for about 30 minutes, 3 times a week then gradually build your way up to 5 or more days a week or 60 minutes, 3 times a week. Start slowly by doing an activity that you like and aim for small achievements each day.

    Eating healthy is another key component to fighting stress. Eating healthy and sensibly provides the essential nutrients your body needs to perform to the best of its ability. Fast food and processed foods may taste good, but they can make you feel tired and unmotivated. An example of sensible eating would be to eat multi-grain bread instead of white bread. For breakfast you can throw out the donut and have oatmeal with a side of fruit. For lunch you can skip the hamburger and have a turkey sandwich without mayonnaise and a side of veggies. For dinner you can have a serving of lean meat, such as chicken or pork, with brown rice and veggies.

    Planning ahead is another key factor to keeping stress levels low. Waiting until the last minute to do things can cause a lot of stress. If you are planning a party, do as much as possible prior to the day of the party so you can enjoy yourself on the special day. We may think we can do it all in one day, even if it is probably impossible.  That kind of thinking will leave you feeling stressed and exhausted!

    Another simple way of reducing stress is just to laugh. When you laugh you also produce “feel good” chemicals which help you to reduce stress and to relax your muscles. If you don’t find much around you that is funny, try watching a funny movie. Conversation is another way to reduce stress. Try surrounding yourself with friends who are positive and who will listen to you. They might even inspire you. If you would rather do activities to reduce your stress levels on your own: try reading, listening to classical music, or meditating to calm your mind and soothe your soul.

    Try looking for exercise, meditation or relaxation classes in your area. offers free exercise classes in the areas of San Ysidro and Chula Vista.  For more information please call (619)594-4504.

    If none of these ideas seem to help you with your stress, you should try contacting your doctor. If you are experiencing extreme stress, anxiety, or depression you can call the San Diego Crisis Line toll free number is 1(800) 479-3339.