Stress-the link between stress and money

suspect there are very few people who haven’t been stressed over money at some point in their life. Indeed, for many people, money is probably their greatest cause of stress and they worry about how they’re going to pay the mortgage or meet the next car payment.

Surprisingly enough money even causes stress for people who have a lot of it and, in some cases, their stress levels are even higher than those in the majority. They don’t of course need to worry about their next mortgage payment, but they often have substantial sums of money invested and watch their fortunes rise and fall with the world markets.

Perhaps the strangest thing of all is that there’s no real reason why money should be the cause of such stress. Certainly in the past people had a lot less money than most of us do today and they managed to lead very happy lives with next to nothing in the bank, so why is it such a problem for so many people today?

This is not all that easy a question to answer, but a sense of perspective will probably help.

The fact of the matter is that stress over money is no more or less likely that stress over anything else in our lives and, more often than not, when we talk about stress in relation to money we don’t really mean stress at all. Perhaps a better word would be ‘concern’.

Stress arises when a person finds themselves in the position of having a problem which they feel that they ‘must’ solve but for which they ‘can’t’ find a solution. You might for example come out of a meeting with a boss that you simply don’t get on with feeling stressed. In this case stress results from the fact that you’re locked into working for this individual with seemingly irreconcilable differences and simply can’t see a way out, other than to quit your job which isn’t an option because you need the money.

In most cases of stress over money however the problem is temporary and, while the solution may not always be attractive, there is generally an answer and you can see a light at the end of the tunnel.

Millions of people find themselves in debt every year, particularly in an age of credit cards, interest free credit and a host of other ‘easy money’ alternatives. But, just as millions of people get into debt, so millions of people also get out of debt.

One of the most common causes of stress over money arises out of family arguments over money and when two people disagree over how to spend limited funds, conflict is the almost inevitable result. But, there is no need for this form of conflict to lead to stress. If both parties are willing to be realistic, to plan together for the long-term planning, to respect the other person’s point of view and to compromise when necessary, a solution can almost always be found.

For more information about stress, including such things as the cause of stress and stress relief, please visit Stress-Relief-And-Anxiety-Relievers.com

Simple Indulgences for March

Here is a series of simple, quick, and affordable indulgences to help you slow down and enjoy this season of beauty and transition.

* Welcome spring. Whether or not the temperatures are beginning to warm in your part of the world, take a walk, paying particular attention to the little signs that a new season is on its way.

* Stop by your local cosmetics counter for a sample of a fresh floral perfume.

* Browse the library or online bookstores for a “beach book,” an absorbing story you can enjoy without a whole lot of thought.

* Buy a racy new bra.

* Light a scented candle in the room where you spend most of your time. Whenever you need a mini-break, allow the aroma to carry you to a more relaxing and peaceful place.

* Ask your best friends, “What is your all-time favorite movie?” Take their suggestions to the video rental store and plan a movie and popcorn night with the family.

* Are there people in your life who rob you of energy or make you feel bad about yourself? Many of us cling to relationships that we have outgrown or that are just no longer good for us. Give yourself permission to focus on those relationships that truly support and nourish you.

* For 15 minutes, go back to bed. It’s the ultimate indulgence during a hectic week. Burrow under the covers and enjoy the comfort of your sheets and blankets.

* Keep a running list of quotes from your kids that crack you up. (Keep it in the kitchen so it’s always available to add to–and to look back on.)

* Send flowers to someone. A colleague, a neighbor, your mother-in-law… or yourself.

* Create your own coffee bar. Purchase beans from your favorite coffee house. Splurge on a few syrups and whipped cream, if you like. Invite over a few friends.

* Pick up a glamorous pair of sunglasses. Put them on when you need a little lift. Just for a moment, pretend to be someone you’re not.

* Buy something small that makes you feel cherished: fresh blackberries, homemade oatmeal soap, a silk eye pillow.

* Make a soothing foot scrub. Combine equal parts Epsom salts, baking soda, table salt, and water. Don’t forget a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Rub into your feet, sloughing away the rough spots and preparing for this season’s sexy, strappy sandals.

* Create a running gratitude list for the area of your life that is the bumpiest. Whether it’s your kids, your spouse, or your career, make a point to add to the list daily and so keep mindful of your blessings.

* Enjoy the spring air by hopping on your bicycle and taking a ride all by yourself.

* This time of year, many of us feel stuck in a routine. When faced with a choice today, make a deliberate attempt to choose something different. Whether you eat something new for lunch or exercise on the bike instead of the Stairmaster, a habit of trying new things will help remind you that life presents a lot of options.

* Remind yourself that spring is on its way with aromatherapy. Choose a scented candle, essential oil or aromatherapy inhaler in an energizing spring scent: lemon, basil, bergamot, sweet orange, peppermint, eucalyptus, tangerine, or any floral blend.

* Think of your own small indulgences, and continue to enjoy one each day.

About the author: Susie Cortright is the editor of two “just for you” websites:bestselfhelp.com, which saves you time and money by cataloging only the best personal growth tools, and Momscape.com, devoted to helping busy parents find balance. Today, Momscape visitors receive Susie’s “6 Days to Less Stress” course free: http://www.momscape.com. And BestSelfHelp visitors receive a free self-help classic: http://www.bestselfhelp.com

5 tips to Reducing Stress

. Eat right

Nutrition is important to do your task efficiently. Without proper nutrition, you are more susceptible to stress, thus, keeping you from functioning effectively. Remember this: taking time to eat right keeps you active and healthy, thus, makes it easier for you to do your work faster and more efficient.

One reason why you work is to have money to finance your daily needs. However, if your work limits you from enjoying life itself, meaning you cannot even eat your breakfast and take a good meal during lunch time, then, you may be missing the whole point of working.

2. Get enough sleep

To maintain healthy physical and emotional well-being, sleep is very important. Lack of sleep on the other hand prevents you from maintaining focus on your work, handling stress, and functioning properly. Sadly, busy schedules and tons of deadlines prevent you to get enough sleep. If this is your case, try soft music, massage, meditation, bubble bath, and sex as means to invite sleep. Do not forget quick nap.

3. Maintain a spiritual Life

Research shows that maintaining spiritual life such as meditating and praying as well as joining spiritual gatherings can reduce stress. Spiritual activities attend to spiritual calmness which as well answers emotional and physical distress.

4. Having the right attitude pays off

Your emotional attitude towards situations and experiences in life determines your overall perception of things. When you think that certain situation negatively, your attitude will also become negative, thus, making that situation stressful for you. Becoming optimistic, meanwhile, will let you keep the stress away and attract positive energy.

5. Find diversions/hobbies

A diversion from stressful environment is important to decrease stress as well as tension. Find one hobby you can enjoy. A hobby can turn out not only a great solution for stress reduction, but might also provide a source of enjoyment and fun for many years.

Learn about how you can decrease the levels of stress in your life, enjoy better harmony and less anxiety and beat stress. Visit the Stress Relief Tips

12 Winter Blah Busters

Feeling stuck in a never-ending winter? Declare an early spring with these quick ideas.

1. Bust a friend’s blahs. Take her out for coffee or a glass of wine, or offer to take her kids while she enjoys an hour or two alone. Such a simple gesture will brighten your own day as well.

2. Indulge yourself by paying someone else to do one of those dreaded winter chores: Pay to have your car washed, for example. While you wait, relax with a cup of coffee or tea and your favorite section of the newspaper or a magazine you don’t receive at home.

3. Make a milk bath to rejuvenate tired, flaky winter skin. Simply add a cup of milk or a packet of powdered milk to running bath water. The milk’s lactic acid will help exfoliate dead skin cells and leave you feeling pampered and refreshed all day.

4. Brighten your home with a splash of color. Search your home (or your favorite discount store) for vivid accents that will add some energy to your home – and your outlook – this time of year. Try a new rug in the entry hall, a few bright new pillowcases on the bed, new bath towels, or a new tablecloth in the dining room. Overstock.com has a good selection of luxury linens at low prices: http://www.overstock.com

5. Make an appointment at your favorite cosmetics counter for a makeover, and watch your spirits lift.

6. A recent study indicates that a weekly talk with a friend can be as effective against moderate depression as counseling or antidepressants. Even if you’re not feeling blue, call a friend who may be having a tough time. Meet her for coffee or a jog through the park. Let her know how much she means to you.

7. Cold temperatures can wreak havoc on your hands. Give your cuticles a treat by soaking them in olive oil for five minutes. Then massage the oil into your hands and let sit for 10 minutes. Rinse and slather on your favorite scented lotion.

8. Reduce stress by working on your ability to stay in the present moment. For a few moments at a time, make an effort to become fully conscious of your life and the situation at hand. Concentrate on each of your five senses. Tune out distractions by focusing your awareness only on immediate stimuli. Such mindfulness is meditative and calming.

9. Write yourself a heartfelt Valentine. In it, record the traits you admire about yourself as well as a few promises for the year to come. Mail the letter. When it arrives, tuck it away until you need a boost.

10. Declare an early spring. Treat yourself to a reminder that sunny days are ahead with a new floral body spray, a scented candle, or a bouquet of fresh cut flowers for your dining room table.

11. Make a list of activities you enjoy solo. Rank them. Then make the time to do at least one item from your “top five” today.

12. Start the “Generosity Game” in your neighborhood. It all starts with a card inviting you to do a good turn for someone – anonymously. Then you pass on the card, which invites the kindness recipient to perform a random act of kindness for someone else. You can download and print the cards at the Generosity Game website: http://www.generosity.org. The site also provides more information on the game and fosters imagination on creative ways to make the world a little nicer.

Copyright 2004 Susie Cortright.

About the Author: Susie Cortright is the author of several books for women and the founder of Momscape.com, a website designed to help busy parents find balance. The site features special offers on affordable luxuries, uplifting essays and articles, even a mind-body-spirit fitness program and community. Visit today and receive Susie’s “6 Days to Less Stress” course-by-email free. http://www.momscape.com

20 Ways One Person Can Change the World for Under $50 a Month

How can one person change the world? If not the entire world…then one person’s world? By taking positive action! Look around your community! There are needs every day…on every block. And you don’t have to be rich, talented or even *connected* to meet them. You just have to be willing to do a small amount or give a small amount every month. But that small amount can make a big difference in someone’s life. Here are some things you can do for $50 to change someone’s world:

1. Buy a box of groceries for one or two families in need a
month.

2. Buy books for 10 kids who can’t afford books each month.

3. Buy diapers for your local day care center.

4. Dedicate $50 a month to sponsor inner city children for
summer camp.

5. Buy space heaters for those who can’t afford them in the
winter.

6. Or pay part of someone’s electric bill during the cold
winter or hot summer.

7. Adopt a senior that has no family nearby. Take them for
rides, shopping and lunch or a special dinner on their
birthday.

8. Buy smoke alarms or carbon monoxide alarms for 2-3 families
a month. You may save a life.

9. Commit to mentoring 1 student with the goal of making sure
that student graduates from high school. Commit $50 a month
toward college tuition.

10. Buy $50 of fresh fruit and vegetables every month and
donate them to a senior or child day care center.

11. Adopt a family. Be responsible for presents on holidays
and birthdays and special dinners on holiday occasions.

12. Help a senior or single mother with monthly cleaning chores
or home repairs.

13. Pay for a dental exam for one needy child a month.

14. Commit $50 toward college books for a worthy student.

15. Round up clothing in your neighborhood and give it to a
domestic violence shelter along with $50 to augment supplies.

16. Buy a car seat a month and donate it to your local hospital
or health department for families who cannot afford proper
restraints for their children.

17. Give $50 worth of general school supplies (paper, crayons,
pencils, etc.) to your local school per month.

18. Buy $50 worth of coats at your local thrift shop and donate
them to a local homeless shelter.

19. Buy $50 worth of yarn or fabric for local sewing or knitting
clubs which make quilts and afghans for those in need.

20. Donate $50 a month to your local United Way. Each local
United Way is autonomous. Check with your local United Way
to find out how your donations can be leveraged to help
greater numbers of your neighbors.

Look around your community. There are needs that you can meet.
You just have to be willing to do a small amount or give a small
amount every month. Start now and make 2006 the year you change
the world!

Pamela Cole Harris is a writer, eco-decorator and author of
*100+ Wildly Imaginative Ways to Make Your Own Coffee Table – a
Handbook for Creatively Deficient Decorators.* Visit her website,
http://www.homeandgardenmakeover.com for her unique decorating
and remodeling style (and a free newsletter!) Or for unique
content for your website, written especially for your keywords
and audience, visit http://www.pamelacoleharris.com. (more…)