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Kick Stress to the Curb - Start NOW!

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You CAN Stop Stress in it's Tracks

Stressed or dealing with the effects and don't know how to kick it? You've come to the right place my friend.



I've been to hell and back, making it through alive with volumes of information and tips to help you. Addicted to a high-stress lifestyle for 10 years, "Stress" used to be my middle name. Me along with 4 in 10 other Americans! Now, I'm very grateful to be here, sharing my useful cures to help you begin living the stress-free, more fulfilling life you deserve!

But First - MY Story and Why Stress is NOT a Friend!

Well, a little stress is okay every once in awhile - it's kind of fun right? Staying up all night, going on a rant, running a marathon. But CONSTANT strain on your body and mind will manifest into huge problems.

Here's my story for example:

All my life I worried intensely what people thought, I was a shallow breather, in college I partied away my life-time rations of alcohol, pulled all-nighters often, kept myself awake with coffee, energy drinks and Vivrin, ate terribly, and rarely worked out. But I was having fun, making ends meet, and hadn't seen any side-affects...yet. I was INVINCIBLE! (That's me in the above photo)

And then...the results came pouring in like rain in the Northwest. I had poor digestion, bad breath, anxiety/panic attacks, adrenal fatigue, newly developed food allergies, insomnia, chronic physical pain - I'd basically won the stress lottery!

After wallowing away for awhile, wondering WHY I deserved this, I started researching. I started with western medicine, then learned more about Naturopathy and how it can help. I found out a lot. Below are tips to eliminate stressors and begin a healthier lifestyle - these in particular helped me the MOST.

I would be overjoyed if sharing my story helps just one person kick their stress to the curb!!!

...My take on Medical Doctors vs. Naturopaths

With ball cap covering my blushing face and tears streaking down my cheeks, I walked into my family doctor's office, desperate for something, ANYthing to cure me. Dr. Cox (yes, just like on "Scrubs"!) listened to my story and instantly gave me anti-depressants.

Little did he or I know that what I had was a BAD case of Adrenal Fatigue. Needless to say, in my case, the anti-depressants didn't help.

Then a friend referred me to a Naturopath named Nina who became somewhat of a savior. She immediately ran some tests on my adrenals. My results showed that they were barely functioning. She rolled up her sleeves and said "Kathryn, are you willing to change?" I said absolutely. We also found I had accrued mutiple allergies, vitamin deficiencies, and lacked the ability to digest certain foods - consequences of my Rock Star lifestyle.

Now I'm NOT saying to abandon your doctor. I'm just staying western medicine is better at some things and Naturopath's/Nutritionists are better at others. I'd recommend talking with both, to pin-point exactly what YOUR unique needs are.

Finally, here is a summary of the best-of-the-best tips I learned along my journey to well-being. Anyone is welcome to try, whether burdened by stress or just looking for ways to relax!

Also, if you suffer from extreme blushing social situations like I did, hypnosis audio's specifically for blushing are absolutely vital. You need to reformat and retrain your brain not to care about blushing and to control blushing. Check out Richard MacKenzie's Blushing Hypnosis Mp3. It's top-notch and will help!

Tip 1: Relax and BREATH

If all you do is take time to breathe deeply, you can GREATLY improve your health. Want to know why?

When you breathe in deeply, your diaphram hits your Vagas (pronounced Vegas!) Nerve and TELLS your brain everything is okay. So your autonomic functions (i.e. heart rate, digestion, respiration rate, salivation, perspiration, diameter of the pupils, breathing, and sexual arousal) go merrily along, getting the energy they need to work properly.

When your breath is short and shallow , your Vagus Nerve isn't activated and your brain doesn't receive the "Green Light" to give full-power to your autonomic functions. Basically, you stay in a constant state of flight-or-fight. Little does the brain know, there's nothing scary ahead, except maybe rush-hour traffic. Most of us do not breathe deeply enough, and even HOLD our breath during stressful activities. This is a very destructive habit and can greatly damage your health.

Despise sitting in traffic, doing laundry or the dishes? Use these situations as chances to practice deep breathing. Take full, deep breaths, counting to 10 breathing in - pause here - then let out counting to 10. Do this OFTEN. Of course, it helps to practice this in a quiet comfortable setting, but anywhere is ok!

Tip 2: Trade Fast-Food in for Health Food

Sometimes there's nothing better than a triple-shot mocha for breakfast, fries and a cheeseburger from Dick's (it's a Seattle thing) for lunch, a Red-Bull vodka for happy hour and Chinese take-out for dinner. Maybe not all in the same day, but hey, I'm guilty of it!

My health-conscious mother would say "Are you eating your green foods? T.V. dinners are terrible for you! Mark my words, you'll pay for your habits!". I shrugged her off. I was invincible, remember? Well, until my stomach and adrenals stopped working (deep breaths here), and I became allergic to everything but water and rice (exaggeration here).

You don't have to cut out EVERY thing (I still eat McDonald's breakfast hashbrowns on occasion), but my personal doctor recommends cutting foods that are tough to digest in the first place.

Here's a list of foods to seriously AVOID:

Anything containing HYDROGENATED OILS. Highly PROCESSED Foods. FRIED Foods. WHEAT Products. DAIRY Products. POTATOES. TOMATOES. CORN. SUGAR. CITRUS Fruits. PORK. Commercial (nonorganic) EGGS. SHELLFISH. Peanuts/PEANUT BUTTER. COFFEE. ALCOHOL. Caffeinated TEAS. Fruit JUICE. SODA.

Drastically changing your diet sounds scary at first, but there IS a silver lining - you'll be surprised at the thousands of healthy and allergy-free foods just waiting to tantalize your taste-buds. There are also great books on how to incorporate healthy food into your diet, and if you're eliminating certain staples (dairy/wheat), just HOW to get the nutrition you need from other sources!

My Personal Favorite!

I Highly Recommend this book, as I refer to it almost daily and am always impressed.
The Anti-Inflammation Diet and Recipe Book: Protect Yourself and Your Family from Heart Disease, Arthritis, Diabetes, Allergies - and More

The Anti-Inflammation Diet and Recipe Book: Protect Yourself and Your Family from Heart Disease, Arthritis, Diabetes, Allergies - and More

by: Jessica K. Black

Amazon Price: $10.40 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

    This book is a treasure trove of information, discussing food allergies, substitutions, delicious recipes and so on.

More Healthy Recipe Books to Add to your Kitchen!

Tip 3: Get a Boost with Non-Prescription, Natural Supplements!

Of course, I'm no doctor, but I've tried every vitamin under the sun and know how it affects ME. Keep in mind, taking supplements go hand-in-hand with eating healthy food. And remember, ALL bodily functions affect one another. It's very important to support not just one, but all of them.

But BEFORE you try anything, please find a Naturopath or Nutritionist to run it by. Here are some recommendations to write down and discuss at your first visit!

Adrenal Support:
1. Adrenal Dessicated
2. Flower Essences - (Combo of catnip, columbian lily, fuchsia, sea onion)
3. Vitamin C
4. Calcium/Magnesium
5. Licorice Root

Digestive Support:
1. Ginger Tea or Supplement
2. Liquid Chlorophyll (I drink 1 Tablespoon every day!)
3. Probiotics
4. Papaya Enzymes
5. Yellow Dock

Anxiety:
1. Passionflower
2. Valerian
3. GABA
4. Kava
5. B Vitamins

Depression:
1. St. John's Wart
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
3. Sam-e
4. Folic Acid
5. 5-HTP

My Personal Favorite!

Nature's Way Chlorofresh

Nature's Way Chlorofresh

Amazon Price: (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

I LOVE this stuff. Chlorophyll is known for deodorizing AND cleansing the body of toxins. I take a spoonful a day!

More Recommended Natural Supplements

Tip 4: Drink, Drink, Drink - WATER That Is!!!

It is vitally important to drink LOTS of clean, pure WATER! Ionized and Alkaline water is top-notch. Avoid bottled water as it has been found to contain chemicals harmful to people with weakened immune systems. If you're in Mexico or can't drink out of the tap, of course bottled water is the way to go. I started drinking purified, Ionized water, and felt noticeably better. Some people get nervous drinking water without fluoride. I recommend doing some research on the subject, as many will find studies showing harmful side-effects of INGESTING the stuff (fluoride that is).

Try this. When you first wake up, drink a glass of water (if you can with a splash of lemon). Wait a half hour or so before eating. Continue drinking 8 glasses full throughout the day. If you can't remember, write yourself a note - do whatever it takes.

Drink room-temperature water more often than not, and DO NOT drink any liquids during meals or 15 minutes before/after - it dilutes the digestive fluids. With really spicy or salty food, little sips are okay. Talk to your doctor, but if you have bad digestion/adrenal fatigue, you might want to avoid spicy foods.

My Personal Favorite!

EcoUsable Ech2o 25 oz Stainless Steel Filtered Bottle - Metallic Blue

EcoUsable Ech2o 25 oz Stainless Steel Filtered Bottle - Metallic Blue

Amazon Price: (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

Very handy water bottle you can take anywhere! Fill with tap water, streams, rivers, lakes...etc.
Note: First day of use, let water sit overnight to prepare the filter. Then you're good to go!

Purified Chemical-Free Water is Best!

Tip 5: Get some Serious Sleep

A lot of us underestimate the power of a good sleep. I liked staying up late, watching shows, hanging out with friends. When my doctor gave me a curfew of 10pm, it was embarrassing at first, telling my night-owl cohorts I was checking in so early. But I began reaping the benefits.

If you're stressed, your energy reserves are low and you NEED more sleep to re-charge. I go to bed by 10pm (don't let your second wind kick in - that's trouble) and wake up at 7. My body loves me for it!!! A night on the town every once in awhile is okay of course - having a social life is very healthy!

Here's some things I did to enhance my sleep experience:

1. Get a 1" - 2" memory foam and put it over your old mattress. It works wonders.
2. Heat up a microwaveable pack to put over your tired eyes, stomach or toes.
3. Try a magnetic therapy eye-mask to soothe your eyes, and keep light out.
4. Throw out lumpy pillows and worn sheets. Invest in some new, comfy bedding.
5. Turn on a timed relaxation cd to whisk you away into dreams.
6. Try taking a natural Melatonin supplement before going to bed.

My Personal Favorite!

2.0

2.0" Visco2 Ventilated Mattress Enhancer

Amazon Price: (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

I've actually slept on memory foam directly over a hard-wood floor and had an amazing night sleep. I have one on my futon as well as my bed. I'm addicted to being comfy!!!

Some Other Suggestions!

Tip 6: Practice Thinking Good Thoughts

This might sound cliche, but thinking positively is a key ingredient to releasing a lot of tension from your life. When I was upset as a kid, Mom would always say "Whatever you do, don't smile" and darn it all, I always cracked a grin.

In my adult life though, I felt constant anxiety in my stomach, in my shoulders, in my clenched jaw. It wasn't a way to live. I started observing my negative thoughts and slowly replacing them with positive ones. My glass became half full INSTEAD of always half empty. NOW it's more like full to the brim and overflowing!

No matter what your troubles are, if you're giving all your attention to what's wrong, nothing will ever change! As tough as it may seem sometimes, try paying attention to the GOOD things in your life, even if it's ONE thing. Avoid dwelling on the negative.

You can try subliminal message cd's, do positive affirmations, watch inspirational DVD's, write down all the positive things going on in your life. All of these helped me!

My Personal Favorite!

The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment

The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment

Amazon Price: $22.22 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

Eckhart Tolle is one of the MOST inspirational, humble, genuine beings I've had the pleasure of learning from. I have his audiobooks, books, and watch him on You Tube from time to time. His lecture at the Benaroya Symphony House in Seattle was witty, powerful, and thought provoking.

Some Other Suggestions!

Tip 7: Read a Book or Listen to a Book on Tape/CD - For FUN!

In our busy "rush, rush, rush" lifestyles, we can't imagine picking up a book let alone reading one. You'll thank yourself though, once you do.

I started riding the bus to work and reading literally just 2 pages a day(about 10 minutes worth). It was a snail's pace. But I started looking forward to it! And it distracted me from the worried, negative thoughts bouncing around in my head.

It's OK to let go of incessant thoughts for 10 minutes or more and immerse yourself in a good read. Give your mind a break, breathe deeply, know everything will work out, and enjoy getting transported into another world.

If you don't have time for an ACTUAL book - get a book on tape/CD. There are an infinite number on any subject you want. My favorites are Fantasy and Mystery.

My Personal Favorite!

The Twilight Saga Collection

The Twilight Saga Collection

by: Stephenie Meyer

Amazon Price: $35.00 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

My co-worker Sean was so addicted to Twilight, he finally convinced me to read his copy. I cannot put it down! Highly recommended. The hype on this one is legit.

Some Other Suggestions! Try Audio-Books

Tip 8: Treat Yourself to Something Nice!

I have friends who would never splurge and get a massage. But I'm telling you, go for it. When your health is on the line, make an appointment and ENJOY.

If you're worried that you can't skip work for it, stop worrying. It's worth it and your employer will reap benefits as well! Rejuvinated people produce much better work than stressed out people.

Besides a massage, there are many more pleasures to sooth your body and soul!

Here's a few of my personal favorites:

1. Purchase some simple spa products to use at home
2. Get a facial or pedicure every once in awhile
3. Keep candles and matches in your bathroom - shower or bathe every day in candlelight!
4. Get an essential oils diffuser and calming oils OR try a "Raindrop Therapy" Treatment.
5. Visit a Reiki therapist for energy-balancing.
6. Get an Accupuncture treatment. It's fun, different and it works!
7. Try an Infared Spa Treatment (for heavy toxin release and burning calories)

My Personal Favorite!

Could not locate item B000TGMQL6. Please try again.Sorry, there are no results available from Amazon.

Some Other Suggestions!

Tip 9: Rejuvenate Body and Mind with Calming Exercises!

If you're burned out, the last thing you want to do is WORK-out right? And actually, getting on the tread-mill for an hour might NOT be healthy for you, depending on your condition.

For example, if you're adrenal system is greatly fatigued, intense aerobic exercise is can worsen your condition. Consult your doctor or naturopath on which exercise would be best for you!

These are my three suggestions, which can be good for anyone, stressed or not. Always take it slow and remember to BREATHE DEEPLY!

1. YOGA! You do NOT have to be flexible OR thin to do this. If you're NEW to yoga, try Dahn, Hatha or Vinyasa. Bikram (HOT yoga) is ok, but probably would be taxing on someone with low energy. Yoga classes are available in almost EVERY city, so try one! Or buy a DVD to test it out before getting a membership.

2. WALK often! Walking is VERY healthy - especially if you can relax while you're doing it. Put some of your favorite music on you IPOD or MP3 Player and get outside. If you can't go outside, try visiting a museum and take a tour! AVOID shopping malls - there are too many frantic people, too much unhealthy food, and too much stimulation.

3. MEDITATE. It's simple, yet does take some practice to quiet your mind. Once you get the hang of it, you'll notice a sense of calm making it's way into your daily activities as well. It can be as simple as sitting quietly, spine straight, hands folded together or on your knees, and watching your breath. Let random thoughts pass by and keep focusing. 5 minutes a day does wonders!

My Personal Favorite Meditation CD!

Indigo Dreams: Adult Relaxation-Guided Meditation/Relaxation Techniques decrease anxiety, stress, anger

Indigo Dreams: Adult Relaxation-Guided Meditation/Relaxation Techniques decrease anxiety, stress, anger

by: Lori Lite

Amazon Price: $8.94 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

Some Highly Rated Bestsellers!

Tip 10: Sanctify your Space!

If you can't take a vacation, bring some LIFE, COLOR and SOOTHING SOUNDS into your home and work environment.

Although it can be very healing to be in nature, many of us cannot escape for extended periods of time. Don't be discouraged. Bring nature TO YOU. I hauled a huge river rock into my cubicle and put it at my feet, using it for massage - and to feel a connection with nature. It was free, and helped me relax!

Here are some things I recommend, which can greatly improve your mood!

1. Get a small water-fountain for work or home. (Never put left-over tea in it, just trust me!)
2. Green plants add dimension and life to the spaces around you. And they cleanse the air you breathe.
3. Try Tachyon products - specifically the "Energy Shield" by IQNR, to help protect you from constant exposure to electronics.
4. Print out positive, funny, or inspirational quotes to read.
5. Print out photos of beautiful scenery, landscapes, beaches, rainforests etc. - to help you feel more at ease.
6. Make a CD of instrumental guitar or piano music to keep your mind alert AND tranquil.
7. Get a salt crystal lamp (w/ candles OR lights). They help ionize the air and the warm light they radiate is soothing.
8. Get a little Beta Fish. They thrive in small bowls and don't require equipment. My fish named Elvis became a dear friend. He knew all my secrets!

My Personal Favorite!

AW by Artemis Woman Salt Crystal Lamp

AW by Artemis Woman Salt Crystal Lamp

Amazon Price: (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

These lamps give off such a warm, soft glow while ionizing the air around them. I use one with a candle, but for the work place, a plug-in is best! Gorgeous.

Relaxing, Uplifting and Enjoyable Music!

Last but not Least...Never Give Up!

Discovering how to heal from past lifestyle choices and implementing new habits are very tough. Did you know it only takes 21 days to start a new habit? So they say. Breaking habits can take a lot longer. On my journey to become stress-free, I noticed small changes right away, but it took about 6 month before I felt significantly different.

My advice? Start with small things. And don't hate yourself if you cave and get 10 burritos at Taco Bell. Just keep moving forward with a positive attitude (which I know is difficult to muster up sometimes).

The key here is to be GOOD to yourself, emotionally and physically. Set goals. Write them down OR keep a somewhat clear image of where you want to be in 1 month, 3 months, 6 months etc. DO NOT GIVE UP! Tell yourself there is NOTHING standing between you and the healthiest, happiest version of you! You deserve it.

Here's one of my favorite quotes:

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, but the second best time is NOW."

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  • SunnyBecca Nov 30, 2009 @ 1:34 pm | delete
    Awesome lens! Will use your tips. :-)
  • PotPieGirl Nov 16, 2009 @ 2:30 pm | delete
    Absolutely EXCELLENT lens! Great tips and lots of useful advice that we ALL should take to heart!

    Keep up the great work!

    Jennifer
    ~PotPieGirl
  • Kali_K Nov 16, 2009 @ 6:03 pm | delete
    Thank you so much Jennifer! I really appreciate you stopping by :-)
    ~Kathryn
  • Trisha_King_Love_Expert Nov 13, 2009 @ 8:28 am | delete
    I like your lens. Very informative, visually attractive presentation! I agree with you that stress needs to get kicked to the curb. Keep up the good work.
  • wyrm11268 Oct 18, 2009 @ 1:16 pm | delete
    wonderful lens. Enjoyed reading and now going to relax :-)
  • surleau Oct 15, 2009 @ 6:23 pm | delete
    Wonderful insight! Thanks for sharing. I'm going to start today :)
  • skiesgreen Oct 14, 2009 @ 8:29 pm | delete
    Great lens, well done 5*
  • VictoriaNTC Oct 14, 2009 @ 8:18 pm | delete
    Awesome Lens Katherine!
    Stress can be the root of disconnection, illness and want!
    I left 5 stars for you!
    Online Love Advice
    Victoria
  • Jayhopson Oct 14, 2009 @ 7:26 pm | delete
    Very well done... Lot of good info here. thanks!
  • Drewzel Oct 14, 2009 @ 3:15 pm | delete
    awesome. is there anything i can do during the winter months without leaving my home. i work at home so it would be nice to take time outs and just relax...
  • Jerry Beaumont-Taylor Oct 13, 2009 @ 3:25 pm | delete
    Very useful information. These appear to be inexpensive ways to lead a more fulfilling life! Thank you Kali K... Jerry...
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Kali_K

I own and run my Real Estate Firm in Elma, Washington! My many passions involve design, holistic health, travel/adventure, learning new things and mee... more »

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