Signs of too much stress include:

• Aches and illnesses -  headaches, stomachaches, digestive problems, back and neck aches, frequent colds and tight muscles.
• Changes in habits -  insomnia, frequent waking or chronic sleepiness and fatigue, skipping meals, overeating or eating only one type of food, increased use of alcohol or drugs.
• Negative mental outlook - frustration, anxiety indecisiveness, depression, sense of isolation, feeling overwhelmed, quick to anger or find fault, frequent tears, low self esteem and overreacting.

Dr. Mark Oberlies, internal medicine physician with Alegent Health says "Our frenetic lifestyles of trying to fit 27 hours into a 24 hour day can result in anxiety, affecting our relationships and making us overall, less healthy people."  But Dr. Oberlies adds, "the situation can be helped with even moderate changes in exercise, sleep and eating habits."

Although you may not be able to eliminate stress in your life, you can learn ways to control it. Here are some recommendations to help reduce stress:

• Practice yoga or meditation. Another option is to set aside some time each day for playing with a pet, singing, playing a musical instrument, journaling, or working in the yard. These activities slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure, two symptoms that are directly related to stress.
• Focus on the moment. Get in touch with how your body, mind and heart feel. If you find that something is tense, relax it. Notice your surroundings with all your senses.
• Practice healthy lifestyle habits. Get plenty of sleep each night, practice good nutrition, exercise and stretch on a regular basis, and avoid tobacco, alcohol and drugs.
• Be realistic in expectations of yourself and others. Learn how to say "no" and be accommodating if others need to do the same.
• Take time to laugh, have fun and smile.
• Talk with friends and family. Take time to share your successes as well as your disappointments and frustrations. Express your feelings frequently so that minor irritations don't build up.

Also helpful is seeking out people and programs that can teach you to manage stress. Check online to find a yoga classes offered at Alegent health, or call 1-800-ALEGENT (1800-253-4368).