Stress management is something many people struggle with daily. We can call relate to the demands of responsibilities such as bills, family life and career life. The key to stress management is to understanding that we're in control of our lives. We're more in control than we give ourselves credit for and are in charge of our own emotions and schedules and how we cope with stress.

Stress management is critical to one's health and well being and learning to live in the "now" and appreciate the simple pleasures in life can be difficult at times. Health officials have attributed to stress high blood pressure and increased risk for stroke and heart disease.  Physical and mental stressors can be especially heightened for those who live in a major metropolitan area. Managing finances or raising a family in this type of environment leave one feeling exhausted and burned out. Finding outlets to help recharge one's mental batteries make it possible to restore a sense of wellness and alleviate stress and feelings of depression.

Helping others can make a difference for the greater good and relieves stress and anxiety. Actively involving yourself in physical or social activities with your local community can redirect your focus from inward to outward and as a result, reduce stress levels. A daily commitment to the pursuit of happiness and purposely going after it through healthy socially conscious activities can help manage stress. Volunteering, walking dogs or helping to plant a garden can be inspiring and rewarding for the mind and the body.

Exercising releases endorphins on the body that help to energize us and lighten our mood. It's another great way to relieve stress and also strengthens the heart and lungs. Knowing that you are not alone is an important part of stress management and finding peace and happiness. Exercising with others who are experiencing similar difficulties with managing stress can help. Joining friends for a weekend jog or a walk on the treadmill can offer a different outlook and lessen the burden.

Yoga is also a great way to get rid of unwanted stress and pounds at the same time. Many yoga classes these days work every part of the body and consist of more than just a few stationary poses. Yoga is good for the heart and lungs and also incorporates deep breathing exercises for calmness and relaxation. This is beneficial for depression and stress and leaves your mind soothed.

Stress is a normal mental and physical reaction to life's demands and stress management is important. High amounts of stress can have a negative impact on relationships and quality of life. Without proper stress management, high stress levels can lead to serious health issues over time.