People de-stress in different ways, and if soaking in a warm bath doesn't do it for you, try something a little more active and playful in the four-legged variety. Many studies show the health benefits of pets for relieving stress, reducing high blood pressure, and boosting your mood. Calm your mind by playing with your pet. If you don't have one, canoodle with your friend's goldendoodle. Pet Read more

Times are stressful lately, and while massages are a great way to unwind they can be a little hard on the pocketbook. Since money woes are creating enough stress on their own, it is great to find things that can help you unwind that don't cost a dime. Meditation is one such thing. Meditation comes in many forms. You can focus on your breath, a single thought, or a mantra to clear your mind. You Read more

I know that it seems like a contradiction of terms, but active relaxation is a real technique for getting rid of unwanted tension. Stress creates muscle tension so actively relaxing your muscles can really help clear your mind and ease your level of anxiety. Hold the following positions for five seconds and focus on the sensation of muscle tightness. Then actively release the position and focus Read more

Kirsten Dunst has recently been spotted in Maui relaxing and getting toned with some fun kayaking. If you're lucky enough to be vacationing some place warm enough to spend some time on the water like Kirsten, then you should definitely consider kayaking. Don't be intimidated by kayaking I know there is the roll over factor, but in reality kayaking can be a very relaxing and toning experience. To Read more

I love to nap and now I have an excuse — it is good for the heart! Kind of funny to use am exclamation point about the quiet act of napping. A recent study in Greece concluded that those who participated in "napping at least three times a week for a minimum of 30 minutes had a 37 percent lower risk of dying from heart disease compared to non-nappers." It is believed that napping helped Read more

We are a month into the new year and already that resolution to be less stressed has been tossed out the window. Well, bring that resolution back and focus on something that makes you tick. Your breath - yep, I am talking meditation. Meditation involves concentrating on a single thought, word, image or movement and is a great way to reduce stress. Essentially you are trying to strengthen the Read more