Controlling Stress (Cardiovascular)

Lower your risk: Control stress. When you're stressed, your heartbeat speeds up and your blood pressure skyrockets. The next time you feel tension taking over, sit back and look at what's bothering you. Does it really matter? If you're faced with a big problem, talk it out with family or friends. Stay close to the supportive people in your life.

Learn to Relax

To reduce stress, you need to practice daily relaxation. Here are a few ideas:

• Make special time for yourself each day to read a book, listen to music, watch the sun set, or do anything that makes you feel calm and peaceful.

• Use your favorite kind of exercise as a perfect way to release tension.

• Keep your sense of humor! If you can laugh at yourself and the crazy things that happen each day, you'll stay happier and healthier.

• Try deep breathing or meditation. Also, many libraries and bookstores have CDs or cassette tapes that may help you relax.

• Imagine stress away. When you're feeling stress, stop what you're doing. Imagine a peaceful scene-a warm beach or rolling green hills, for example.

• If you need more help with coping, try joining a support group. Sharing problems with others can help you handle the big stresses in your life.