The more complicated our lives become, the more likely we are to be affected by stress. Our jobs, our families, and the many responsibilities we take on will invariably lead to tension and stress. The greater the emotional conflict, the greater the tension. While stress in its purest form is how we get through difficult situations, too much stress will begin to affect us physically as well as mentally. However, there is a natural approach to stress relief that can be added to a busy schedule without interrupting it.

Use these easy steps to relieve that stress.

1. One of the most common manifestations of stress is the tension headache. A very effective technique for instant relief is literally in your own hands. Try this: On one hand, find the area between the thumb and forefinger where there is a "web" of flesh. With the tip of the thumb of your other hand, press the area next to the bone of the index finger. If you feel around you will find a tiny notch in the bone. When experiencing a headache, this spot is very tender. Maintain an even pressure for several minutes. You should notice an immediate diminishing of the headache.

2. Another way of eliminating headaches as well as invigorating your energy level is to stimulate the area at the base of the skull. With fingers of both hands, reach around and locate the hollow area at the center of the base of the skull. Rotate them around and locate the ridges on either side that run down to the neck. With even pressure press into the areas on the left and right side of those ridges just beneath the skull. Hold that pressure for a minute or so. Now, bow your head forward and grasp your neck with both hands and run your fingers along the back, pressing with even pressure with all your fingers. Experiment a little to find the most tender spots and give those areas the most attention. This technique should not only release tension, but it feels great!

3. Next, if it's possible, take off your shoes (you needn't take off your stockings or socks, but the fresh air will feel wonderful). The feet are an entire "mini-system" all by themselves with each part of the foot corresponding to different areas on the body. To invigorate the brain point, press with the tip of your thumb on the very tip of your big toe. Then squeeze the big toe with comfortable pressure - don't forget the other foot! This is a great one to work on to get the creative juices flowing. For further invigoration, take your thumb and rub with firm pressure all in through the soft fleshy area between the heel and the ball of the foot.

4. The last technique involves the ears. Like the foot, they too are a "mini-system". Between the thumb and forefinger, grab the outer part of your ear and stimulate the entire outer edge of each ear. This corresponds to the spine and is a great way to rejuvenate yourself and get rid of neck and back tension. The inner part of the ear corresponds to the major organ systems of the body. Pressing points inside the ear can help with digestion, among other things, after a "power lunch".

There is no way around stress for most of us, but with a few simple techniques, we can do our best to lift our spirits and help our bodies manage it.

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