Improved nutrition and appropriate exercise regimes are often recommended because they reduce fatigue, increase strength and decrease physical and emotional stress. Other techniques such as biofeedback or meditation may also be used to lessen the body's response to adrenaline and keep blood pressure in check.
 
Simple, stress reduction techniques that can be used by anyone include:

• Not worrying about things over which you have no control
• Setting realistic goals for yourself
• Eating well-balanced meals, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep
• Asking for help from family and friends, or a professional, if necessary
• Paying attention to your breathing and practicing deep breathing - breathing in and out slowly through your nose.

Individually Tailored Programs are Often Beneficial.
No matter what your circumstances, we can help you develop a stress management program tailored to you. Exercise, nutrition, biofeedback and various meditation techniques can help you.

Stephen Wood, MA, MFT, CHT, BCIA

Stephen Wood is a licensed psychotherapist specializing in stress management. He holds a Masters Degree in Counseling from Sonoma State University.

Stephen is certified in hypnosis and biofeedback. He has practiced both at hospitals and in private practice for the last 12 years.  While spending much of his time with patients in Cardiac Rehabilitation and Cancer Wellness at the Queen, he also works with Wellness Center membership and the general public on stress related issues and has extensive experience in helping people stop smoking.

For more information about any of our Wellness Center programs, e-mail us at wellnesscenter@stjoe.org