1. Listen to Music

Listening to music is one of my favorite ways to relieve stress. Music is very relaxing and can easily lift your spirits. For me music is a great way to distract myself from thinking about the things in my life that cause stress. When choosing songs to help promote stress relief, select tunes that are upbeat and encouraging. If you only listen to songs that are sad, your stress level may increase.

2. Exercise

There are so many wonderful benefits of exercising on a regular basis. It can help you maintain your weight, help you sleep better and be more energetic. It's also a great way to relieve stress. You don't have to do any certain type of exercises for it to relieve stress. The important thing is that you get up and get moving. When you are stressed, simply exercising for 5 to 10 minutes can be very relaxing.

3. Head Outdoors

If you spend most of your time indoors, consider spending some time outside. Activities such as a short walk are a great way to quickly relieve stress. If the weather is nice, consider eating your lunch outdoors, too. This will give you a quick break from work every day and allow you to unwind for a few minutes. Spending time outdoors can also boost your immune system and improve your health.

4. Do Something for Someone else

When you're stressed, considering doing something for someone else. This will cause you to focus on someone else and forget about the things that are causing you to be stressed. Doing something nice for someone else will also make you feel good about yourself. Your act of kindness can be something like making some baked goods for a neighbor who is sick or buying a cup of coffee for a co-worker. These gestures will definitely be appreciated.

5. Look at Pictures

Do you have pictures of your kids or your significant other on your cell phone or in your purse? When you are stressed, take a few minutes to look at those pictures. Perhaps you have a picture of your little one making a silly face or one of you and your significant other on a trip that you took together. These snap shots will remind you of a time when you were happy and of all of the things you have to be thankful for. You will be surprised how easily looking at happy pictures can relieve stress.

6. Chew Gum

Most people are surprised to know that chewing gum is a great way to relieve stress. It's inexpensive and can be purchased at most stores. Some studies show that chewing sugar-free gum is a great way to prevent overeating when you're under a lot of stress. As a former smoker, I chew gum as a way to relive stress in my life. Instead of reaching for a cigarette, I opt for a stick of gum.

7. Keep a Journal

A journal is a handy tool to have when you need to relieve stress. You can use it to write down the things that are upsetting you. Many people also find that they like having a journal to only write down the good things that happen in their lives. When you have a journal that only has happy memories and thoughts, reading it is a great way to relive stress. Doing this will remind you of all of the wonderful things that you have.

These are some of the ways to relieve stress that work well for me. Are there any techniques you use to relieve stress in your life? I can't wait to hear what you recommend.