Contributed by Nicole Cutler

Persistent, high stress levels always take a toll on wellness. For some, the manifestation is immediate; while other highly stressed individuals don’t notice their distance from health until they are very sick.

Our cells translate how we feel emotionally into a matching physical representation. Because stress can transform into illness, de-stressing is the most valuable way to preserve health.

While each individual must develop their own strategy for relieving stress, the following tips represent a good place to start:

Keep active – Exercising every day provides your cells with a consistent outlet for built-up angst.

Meditate – The practice of quieting your mind helps you let go of stress.

Breathe deeply – Stress is often accompanied by shallow breathing. To encourage relaxation, increase your oxygen intake by consciously breathing deeply.

Laugh often – Proven in the field of psychoneuroimmunology, laughing releases stress relief hormones.

Sing loud – Loud singing requires you to breathe deeply. Aside from the joy of belting out a tune, the increased oxygen flow helps relieve stress.

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