The Today Show, Stress and Dr. Farrell

I've always enjoyed being on the Today Show because they take serious topics and treat them with a delicate, helpful touch. So, when Today called me and asked if I'd do the show on October 26 on the topic of stress in today's world, I agreed without a second thought.

An American Psychological Association poll recently found that almost half of those who responded felt that they were more stress today than in the past five years. They are concerned and stressed over finances, particularly rent and mortgage payments, problems managing family and work, and 54% said they are fighting with people close to them. So, what to do?

I'm always being asked for "natural" remedies for anxiety and stress and tomorrow (right now for you), I'm going to give the audience five tips:

1. Watch the "healthy triad" -- diet, sleep and exercise -- and don't skimp on any of them


2. Put fun and laughter in your life -- it's the best medicine for which you write the prescription


3. Learn and use relaxation breathing on a regular basis--I have it on my website's self-help page here and I urge you to use it


4. Take mini-vacations of two-three days and do it on the spur of the moment. If you can't actually go, try a virtual vacation in your mind. See my guided imagery tip on the self-help page.


5. Learn to say "no." I deal with that in my book and I can't say how important this is. Setting limits on what you do or what you agree to do for others and you'll be happier and, in the long run, so will they.

So, Matt Lauer, here I come.

Related Topics:

• Workplace Stress and Your Health
• Stress and Asthma

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