Originally published in the spring 2005 issue.

CHILL OUT!

11 mood-boosting tips to help you beat stress. By Shandley McMurray

Tip #1
HAVE SEX
Here’s why: Not only is sex more fun than a step class when you need a workout, but a good romp between the sheets can raise levels of feelgood endorphins and help you feel more connected with your partner.
Get inspired: Want to slip into this sexy set from J.Lo Lingerie? Email usat letters@elevatemagazine.com. One lucky reader will win this set! (Don’tforget to tell us your bra and panty size – don’t worry, we won’t print it!)

Tip #2
GET SOME zzzs
Here’s why: Lack of sleep makes you cranky, irritable and stressed. Getting too little can even raise blood pressure. Aim for at least eight hours a night, and you’re guaranteed to feel more refreshed and relaxed.

Tip #3
POP A VITAMIN
Here’s why: High levels of stress and anxiety deplete the body of B vitamins, which are essential to maintaining energy and good health. B vitamins also produce calming serotonin. Take one B-complex or multivitamin a day.

Tip #4
EAT FISH
Here’s why: Fish, such as salmon, mackerel and tuna, are chock full of good-for-you omega-3 fatty acids. They’ve been proven to boost your brain power and raise levels of serotonin, which helps you to relax. Aim for three servings a week.

Tip #5
SIT UP
Here’s why: Slouching can reduce the amount of oxygen you take in by 30 per cent or more, writes Jon Gordon, author of Become an Energy Addict (Longstreet Press). Less oxygen to your brain and body results in less energy overall.

Tip #6
PRACTISE YOGA
Here’s why: The combination of breathing exercises, strength and stretching movements and meditation are key and stretching movements and meditation are to keeping stress at bay. A good yoga class can also help boost your energy level. Aim for at least one hour a week.
Get inspired: Try Eoin Finn’s Power Yoga for Happiness DVD. Available at Lululemon stores across Canada and amazon.ca.

Tip #7
MOVE IT
Here’s why: A brisk, 30-minute walk can help relieve stress and anxiety, treat and possibly prevent osteoporosis, ward off cancer, manage diabetes and reduce aches and pains. Exercise also boosts levels of endorphins, the feel-good hormone that helps elevate your mood. Aim for 30 minutes every day. Get inspired: Give your feet a treat with these Airplus For Her Insoles – a favourite of Heather Locklear, J.Lo and Denise Richards. Available at drugstores and mass-market retailers beginning in May.

Tip #8
GET A MASSAGE
Here’s why: A therapeutic massage relieves physical tesion and gives you the quiet hour you need to totally zone out. No extra cash for a session? Tell your boyfriend or hubby you’ll make him dinner if he gives your shoulders a rub.
Get inspired: Try these dry oil sprays, available at The Body Shop stores across Canada or thebodyshop.ca to shop online.

Tip #9
MEDITATE
Here’s why: Regular meditation can help control the way you react to stressful situations. Just 10 minutes a day can help you become calmer and more focused while reducing levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Sit comfortably in a quiet room and focus on one thing (such as your breath or a lighted candle). Push all other thoughts from your mind.

Tip #10
BREATHE
Here’s why: It may seem simple, but we don’t breathe properly when we’re stressed. Quick, shallow breaths can starve our bodies of oxygen. As a result, we feel sluggish and tense. Whenever you feel anxious, take three deep, slow breaths through your nose, then exhale slowly through your mouth.

Tip #11
MAKE SCENTS
Here’s why: One of the easiest ways to bust stress is by adding essential oils of lavender, chamomile, sandalwood or marjoram to your bath. These scents are proven to relax you both physically and emotionally. For added energy, try peppermint, clove, eucalyptus or cinnamon.