stress BUSTERS

According to the American Psychological Association, 20 percent of Americans admit they’re not doing anything to manage or relieve their stress. Use these 16 stress busters to help you do just that.

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Drink Orange Juice

WebMD suggests that vitamin C helps reduce stress-causing hormones like cortisol. Get your daily dose of the vitamin by drinking a glass or two of orange juice.

2 Feel The Burn

Studies have shown that exercise gives you energy, improves concentration, enhances cognitive function and releases stress-relieving endorphins. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, five minutes of aerobic exercise is all it takes to start feeling anti-anxiety effects.

3 Get Enough Magnesium

Your body releases magnesium to counteract the effects of stress hormones. If you’re low in magnesium, it will deplete quickly and leave you susceptible to high blood pressure, an abnormal heartbeat and a higher risk for heart attack. Eat green leafy veggies, beans and nuts (or take a daily supplement, although food sources are best) to replenish your body’s supply of magnesium.

5 Take 10 A Social Psychological & Personality Science study found that doing something interesting actually replenishes your energy. Feeling stressed? Take 10 minutes to unwind by researching, making or tackling something of interest.

7 Get Your Giggle On

6Label Negative Feelings

Gretchen Rubin of The Happiness Project suggests labeling negative feelings in one or two words. “It’s odd how calming it is,” she says. Say “I’m overwhelmed” or “I’m frazzled” to slap a quick label on those feelings. Admitting how you feel will make things easier to handle.

Laughing can be a quick fix for stress by releasing endorphins, relaxing your body and easing muscle tension. Experts from the Mayo Clinic say laughing can even improve your immune system, mood and personal satisfaction over the long term.