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	<title>Stress Management Magic &#187; School Stress</title>
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	<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com</link>
	<description>Live your life stress free! Like magic.</description>
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		<title>Why do you need a reason to live?  YOU DON&#8217;T!</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/09/why-do-you-need-a-reason-to-live/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/09/why-do-you-need-a-reason-to-live/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Sep 2010 20:23:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relationship Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sponsored suggestions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress and Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress Relievers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Magic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Work Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[breath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[change]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[happiness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[people]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technique]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=660</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[JUST LIVE! Don’t you think it’s difficult sometimes to quantify why you are here on planet earth? I know I’ve found it difficult many times. Perhaps you’ve thought: “It’s just not worth the trouble.” “My kids are raised, my life &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/09/why-do-you-need-a-reason-to-live/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>JUST LIVE!</p>
<p>Don’t you think it’s difficult sometimes to quantify why you are here  on planet earth?  I know I’ve found it difficult many times.  Perhaps  you’ve thought:</p>
<p>“It’s just not worth the trouble.”<br />
“My kids are raised, my life means nothing.”<br />
“My husband and I split up and I will never find my dreams.”<br />
“I am getting old and hurt every day.  There is no future for me.”<br />
“I am a looser.”</p>
<p>Well, I call BS and say STOP THE PITY PARTY.  I’ve been there!<br />
I’ve been “there” many times – more times than I care to remember.  I’ve  been on the edge, without hope, without purpose, alone, overwhelmed  with life in general.</p>
<p>Guess what?  I’m still here!  I just flatly decided a long time ago I  am stronger than to give in to life of the influences of  circumstances…even circumstances I helped create.</p>
<p>I admit my faith has been an abiding factor in my recovery – but just  to let you know, I HAVEN’T ALWAYS had my faith to pull me up by the  bootstraps.  Sometimes I’ve had an “empty cup” and had to remember I am  human, and human kind are built for endurance.</p>
<p>So what if you’ve lost everything you ever worked for SO FAR….I’ve  done that too!  Mama always said, “Material things come and go…”  Guess  what?  THEY DO!</p>
<p>Pinch yourself.  It hurts doesn’t it?  So stop inflicting unnecessary  pain to yourself.  It’s difficult enough to rise above circumstance;  don’t add to your own challenges.</p>
<p>If you are breathing, if you are thinking, if you are reading and  using your hands to type – if you are alive – you still have the chance  to find HAPPINESS.</p>
<p>The secret is, it comes from within YOU!  As you think, so shall you  be.  No matter what the circumstance, there is always a path to travel.  That path, ultimately, is of your own creation.</p>
<p>Don’t give up.  Don’t give in.  You are stronger than you ever  dreamed.  You are worth a life…your life.  You are worth gritting your  teeth, rolling up your sleeves, and trying again!</p>
<p>If you don’t think I know what I am talking about – share your  experience with me privately and I’ll show you I know what I am talking  about!  I haven’t been through the hell in my life for nothing…pain  shared makes your experience easier.</p>
<p>Share it privately with me and I will respond privately to you, with  love and support.  I promise.  I’ve been a personal health consultant  (mind, body and spirit) for over<br />
thirty years, and lived at least five different lives!  Let me help, no charge, if I can!<br />
The spirit is willing!<br />
————————</p>
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		<item>
		<title>BURNOUT:  What It Is and What You Can Do</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/burnout-what-it-is-and-what-you-can-do/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/burnout-what-it-is-and-what-you-can-do/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:55:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fast Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relationship Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sponsored suggestions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress and Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress Management Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress Relievers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Magic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Work Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[breath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[burnout]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[overwhelmed]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rage]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[What to do to relieve]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=640</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Burnout is a term we hear often.  ANYONE can suffer from burnout! It is when you feel seriously stressed and simply believe you may not be able to cope one more minute. BUT BURNOUT CAN BE AVOIDED. As with most &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/burnout-what-it-is-and-what-you-can-do/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Burnout is a term we hear often.  ANYONE can suffer from burnout! It is when you feel seriously stressed and simply believe you may not be able to cope one more minute.</p>
<p><strong>BUT BURNOUT CAN BE AVOIDED.</strong></p>
<p>As with most behaviors, when you learn how to recognize the problem, the causes and symptoms, and ways you can change your environment to reduce stressful situations, you will find you can &#8220;manage stress&#8221; much more effectively, and probably not burnout at all!</p>
<p>Burnout most often occurs in people who feel that they are overworked and unappreciated.  They become disappointed and sometimes very cynical.  They may also feel guilty and ashamed, and may secretly blame themselves.</p>
<p>Signs a burnout can be near include exhaustion (both mental and physical); hopelessness and helplessness; low self-esteem and low spirit, and perhaps more frequent illness.</p>
<p>Burnout often occurs in professionals that &#8220;help&#8221;, such as nursing or teaching.  But anyone who feels very pressured, or even bored from work can suffer from burnout.</p>
<p>The first step towards recovery from any stress related concern is to define the problem.  Is the situation itself stressful?  Is the problem just some small matter that triggers these feelings?  Is there something about your situation you can change?</p>
<p>Nurses as an example again, particularly those who care for terminally ill patients, can be prime candidates for burnout.  However, by accepting that the scenario <strong><em>itself </em></strong>is stressful,<strong> </strong>they can reduce feelings of guilt and resentment.</p>
<p><strong>Make Changes</strong></p>
<p>Changes in both you and your environment can help prevent burnout.  You must let your emotional response take a step back, and let your intellect analyze the situation.  You may have more ability to change your environment than you think. Try to think in positive terms to follow with positive actions.</p>
<p>If a lack of appreciation on the job is damaging your morale, take charge.  Your environment will change as you develop skills to communicate and voice a calm and intelligent opinion about matters to either superiors or your peers. Share your feelings and listen to others.  This is simple and yet can have awe-inspiring results.</p>
<p>When you ignore your needs (both physical and mental) during a period of constant or severe distress, burnout is surely going to be a result.  You must take time to recover and heal from burnout if it strikes.  It can ignite a series of other physical ailments if ignored.</p>
<p>Use and develop skills such as risk-taking, reaching out to friends and family, and talking with others in similar circumstances.</p>
<p>Ask someone your respect to look at your situation and suggest solutions.  Use this change to make burnout a first step toward greater satisfaction.</p>
<p>Above all, before any response, use your oxygen to calm and regenerate you.  Always breathing in slowly, visualize it helping your intellect and your muscles relax.  Then exhale slowly, visualizing all the negativity flying out the fingertips, and making way for positive responses.</p>
<p>Why not practice right now with a few thoughtful breaths.  It will help you right away!  Believe it.  Scientists are now proving &#8220;the ability of mere thought to alter the physical structure and function of gray matter.&#8221;  It certainly can&#8217;t hurt!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Can Laughing Make You Healthier?</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/can-laughing-make-you-healthier-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/can-laughing-make-you-healthier-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 2010 23:55:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fast Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Laughter as Stress Relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relationship Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sponsored suggestions]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[The Magic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Work Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[laughter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[overwhelmed]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[people]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relationships]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tips and techniques]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[What to do to relieve]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=632</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Yes it can! Everyone knows that laughter feels good.  Laughter can make any situation a little more bearable, but did you know it could actually make you healthier? Children laugh about 400 times a day.  Adults only laugh about 15 &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/can-laughing-make-you-healthier-2/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Yes it can!</span></strong></p>
<p>Everyone knows that laughter feels good.  Laughter can make any situation a little more bearable, but did you know it could actually make you healthier?</p>
<p>Children laugh about 400 times a day.  Adults only laugh about 15 times a day, and that&#8217;s not the majority of adults.</p>
<p>Many of us get so wrapped up in the serious side of our jobs, whether it be in an office, working outside, or parenting.  The trouble with that is we simply aren&#8217;t laughing enough.  When we get so bogged down and serious, our stress levels spiral out of control.  Oftentimes we forget there is really still a lighter side to life.</p>
<p>How often do you let yourself laugh?  How often to you chuckle or really laugh until it hurts?  Not often enough I&#8217;d bet!</p>
<p>Laughter is really an all-around health booster.  According to &#8220;Science of Laughter&#8221; on the Discovery Health Web site, when we laugh, natural killer cells, which destroy tumors and viruses, increase.</p>
<p>Not only that, but Gamma-interferon (a disease-fighting protein, T-cells (important for our immune system) and B-cells</p>
<p>(which make disease -fighting antibodies) increase too!</p>
<p>Blood pressure lowers with laughter, and you breathe more when laughing, thereby increasing oxygen in the blood.  That also encourages healing.</p>
<p>Be aware though, what &#8220;some people&#8221; call humor is not beneficial.  When jokes and laughter turn into jabs towards others, and yourself, you are no longer reaping the benefit of your laughter, and are in fact increasing pain and putting distance between yourself and others.</p>
<p>Healthy humor is a whole body experience comprised of three key components:</p>
<p>1.  Laughter, the reflexive and contagious physical experience.</p>
<p>2.  Wit, the cognitive experience.</p>
<p>3.  Amusement (or mirth), the feel good emotional experience enhanced when shared with others.</p>
<p>When these three elements are part of your &#8220;laughter&#8221; experience, you can be absolutely sure your body is benefiting!</p>
<p>Laughter really does lower blood pressure.  Many tests have shown that those who laugh heartily on a regular basis have lower blood pressure than the average person.</p>
<p>Laughter protects our hearts.  Laughter can help prevent heart disease.</p>
<p>The &#8220;humor factor&#8221; actually changes our biochemical state, similar to what the &#8220;flight or fight&#8221; syndrome does &#8211; only laughter changes are good.  It decreases stress hormones and increases infection-fighting antibodies.  It makes us more attentive, and increases the heart rate and pulse.</p>
<p>Laughter is a great workout for your diaphragm, abdominal, respiratory, facial, leg, and back muscles.  It actually gives us a good workout.  It massages abdominal organs, tones the intestinal functioning, and strengthens muscles that hold abdominal organs in place.  A hearty laugh can burn calories equivalent to several minutes on the rowing machine or an exercise bike.</p>
<p>Humor does improve brain function, which in turn helps relieve stress.  It stimulates both sides of the brain to enhance our intellect and learning.  It eases psychological stress and allows people to retain more information.</p>
<p>When we laugh our ability to connect with others improves.   Humor helps us to replace negative emotions with good feelings.</p>
<p>When humor enters it changes our behavior.  We talk more, make more direct eyes contact with others, our energy increases, and simply put, it makes us feel better!</p>
<p><strong>Look for everyday humor.  There is humor to be found!  There are things constantly around us that can incite humor if we let them.  Honestly, you can find silly things happening around you every day.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Look at children.  They can find humor in anything! Surround yourself with positive people.  Take a humor break and pick up a book of jokes to read.  When you start to feel pressured, pick the book up and read a few jokes.</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>I remember a time years ago that I went to the beach with friends.  Trying to impress the guys, I attached a long ponytail to my own hair.  I looked hot!</p>
<p>When asked to play volleyball I said, &#8220;Of course.&#8221;  I had a hundred pins holding the darn thing in.  We played for a few minutes and then my ponytail fell off!</p>
<p>Everyone looked shocked and I simply said &#8220;Time out&#8221;, and I set it by the sidelines and kept playing.  No one laughed or mentioned it, and the game continued.  I played hard and our team won.</p>
<p>When over, I put the hairpiece in my purse and my friend and I went back to the house.  Once the door was closed we burst into laughter and fell down on the floor and laughed until our sides hurt.  I&#8217;m still smiling.</p>
<p>Rather than suffer humiliation or embarrassment, I chose to ignore the stress, and just keep going.  It was the best thing I possibly could have done.</p>
<p>Remember, this is your life!  Don&#8217;t forget to have fun.  Enjoy your life.  Take a breath and take heart.  It will work out easier if you remember to laugh!</p>
<p>Smile now.  The good times are closer than you think.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Do YOU have a Stiff Neck?  Are You Feeling Tense?</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/do-you-have-a-stiff-neck-are-you-feeling-tense-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/do-you-have-a-stiff-neck-are-you-feeling-tense-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Aug 2010 19:51:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Relationship Stress]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Stress and Health]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[neck tension]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[tension]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=619</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Decompress Your Neck and Begin to Relax It is so helpful to learn how to lengthen, relax, and decompress your neck and relax your shoulders.  As you become familiar with your own body, you will find there are simple treatments &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/do-you-have-a-stiff-neck-are-you-feeling-tense-2/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Decompress Your Neck and Begin to Relax</span></em></strong></p>
<p>It is so helpful to learn how to lengthen, relax, and decompress your neck and relax your shoulders.  As you become familiar with your own body, you will find there are simple treatments you can manage, to begin to do this.</p>
<p>Because of the structure of our chairs, the positions we sit in, the kind of pillow we use, the weight of our own heads, the purses and backpacks we care, and the stress we maintain, our necks compress little by little. This can cause neck aches, headaches, and your shoulders to further tighten up and stress to begin to control your body.</p>
<p>Here are simple exercises to prepare you for keeping your shoulders down and your neck relaxed.  The primary exercise will always initially begin with exercising your mind.  Take in a needed breath of oxygen.  Stress and pain cause us to hold our breaths.  Slowly exhale and use your mind to visualize the carbon dioxide leaving and therein making room for more oxygen.  Do this several times mindfully.</p>
<p>Now, hold an object weighing one or two pounds in each hand, letting the weight of the objects pull shoulder blades down. Make sure that you keep the breastbone lifting up so that the tops of the shoulders don’t pull down and forward, collapsing the chest.</p>
<p>Set the objects down and see if you can find the muscles you need to pull your shoulder blades down just as the weights did.</p>
<p>These muscles are called the lower trapeziums muscles. They attach to the vertebrae of the middle back, and insert on the inner border of the shoulder blades. They are antagonist muscles to the upper trapeziums muscles.</p>
<p>These muscles are very important posture muscles, and help support the spine in the middle back. When the lower traps are too weak to counteract the pull of the stronger and tighter upper traps, the scapulae will tend to ride up, compressing your neck.</p>
<p>Remember to use your oxygen.  Roll your shoulders simultaneously in circles moving forward.  Do this several times.  Reverse the circles to move towards the back.</p>
<p>Press your shoulders up &#8211; then push them down.  Think &#8211; and lift your head up from your shoulders where it&#8217;s been pressing downward, bend it towards your left shoulder, then lift again and bend towards the right.</p>
<p>Remember, as you decompress, you will allow vital oxygen to move through the areas with ease.  Think of a garden hose that is crimped and how the water doesn&#8217;t flow freely.  It works the same with your oxygen.</p>
<p>Take a few breaths. When you begin to feel discomfort again during stressful times, remember to use these simple techniques.  You are in charge of how you feel, and if it&#8217;s not good, you are the only one who can change that!</p>
<p>Remember, too, groups are available who can help you discover your stress level through testing, and many organizations have been created specifically to help you through hard times.</p>
<p>Meditation and yoga are two ways to help you learn to manage your stress.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s your body, and the only place you have to live!  Take care of it and have a wonderful day and a great weekend.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>10 Great Ways to De-Stress</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/10-great-ways-to-de-stress/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/10-great-ways-to-de-stress/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Aug 2010 23:14:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fast Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relationship Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[School Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sponsored suggestions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress and Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress Management Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stress Relievers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Magic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Work Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[breath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[burnout]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[change]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[overwhelmed]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[What to do to relieve]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=612</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Does this describe you? Your shoulders are tense your back hurts.  You feel grouchy and can&#8217;t quite put your finger on why you feel like &#8212;&#8211;.  Your wife (girlfriend, children or roommate) looks at you like you are a monster!  &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/10-great-ways-to-de-stress/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Does this describe you? </strong>Your shoulders are tense your back hurts.  You feel grouchy and can&#8217;t quite put your finger on why you feel like &#8212;&#8211;.  Your wife (girlfriend, children or roommate) looks at you like you are a monster!  WHAT CAN YOU DO?</p>
<p><strong><em>YOU CAN HELP RELIEVE BOTH THE PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL TENSION THAT OFTEN ACCOMPANIES STRESSFUL SITUATIONS!</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em> </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Relax your body and relax your Emotions</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em> </em></strong></p>
<p>The next time you feel the effects of stress too much, when you are overwhelmed, try some of the following ways to help you relax</p>
<p>1.  Deep breathing is your number one defense against unmanageable stress.  You can sit, lie down, or stand to do this.</p>
<p>Close your eyes and breathe in slowly for a count of 5-10 seconds. By closing your eyes you will give them a rest too. Take ten of these super-relaxers any time you feel tense.</p>
<p>2.  Stretch.  Practice simple stretches that also be done in various positions.  Gently roll your head in a half circle from side to side with your head pressing towards your chest.  Stretch your arms into the air and stretch you fingers too.  Point your toes away from your body, and then flex them towards you.  Stretching will allow the blood circulation to those parts of the body that have been &#8220;crunched&#8221; by poor posture or sitting at a desk.</p>
<p>3.  Any kind of exercise is wonderful to help reduce stress.  Make it fun.  A walk, hiking, bowling, running, or playing a game of badminton or golf are good examples of fun exercise.</p>
<p>4.  Laugh!  Laughter is healing and a great way to relax.  Go to a comedy club, rent a funny movie, or give that funny friend of yours a call.   It&#8217;s impossible to really laugh and be tense.</p>
<p>5.  Read.  A good book can take you on a great escape.  Read a comedy or a tearjerker and it will help release pent-up emotions.</p>
<p>6.  Take a bath.  Spend at least 30 minutes soaking in a hot bubble bath.  Prior to slipping into the tub, light a few candles and play some very relaxing music.</p>
<p>7.  Eat well.  Try to eat a well-balanced diet, as it will help your body to perform, and keep your mind functioning optimally.</p>
<p>8.  Do something you love to do.  If you like to go to the beach, go.</p>
<p>Gardening, kayaking, seeing friends, playing with a puppy, these are all wonderful ways to relax your emotions.</p>
<p>9.  Talk.  Take time to talk with a friend or relative.  Try to express feelings that you may have been holding inside.  Listen to your partner.  Try to have this conversation while walking in a quiet park or neighborhood.</p>
<p>10.  Get a massage.  A massage is a wonderful way to get rid of physical tension.  30 minutes to an hour will work wonders.  Do not be shy about your body.  Professional masseuses have seen body types of all kinds, and they are there to help. Request specific areas of tension, such as the neck or lower back.</p>
<p>Keep in mind these are just a few of the many stress reducers you can try.  Alcohol and drugs are a &#8220;temporary&#8221; fix and will take you down ultimately, and even cause depression!  Do yourself a favor and begin now.</p>
<p>Close your eyes.  Breathe in deeply and slowly exhale.  You are the only one who can help you, so get to it and <strong><em>create a wonderful day!</em></strong></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Why Some Stress is Good for You</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/why-some-stress-is-good-for-you-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/why-some-stress-is-good-for-you-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Aug 2010 15:31:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fast Tips]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[The Magic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[breath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[change]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[intellect]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[oxygen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relief]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[What to do to relieve]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=609</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There will always be stress in our lives. There is some good stress and some bad stress. People think of stress as &#8220;pressure&#8221; or &#8220;tension&#8221;.  I like to think of stress as being just the way we respond to change!  &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/why-some-stress-is-good-for-you-2/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There will always be stress in our lives. There is some good stress and some bad stress.</p>
<p>People think of stress as &#8220;pressure&#8221; or &#8220;tension&#8221;.  I like to think of stress as being just the way we respond to change!  When you understand stress and the effects that it can have on you, <strong>you can use it to your own advantage</strong>, and turn potential &#8220;stressors&#8221; into &#8220;positive challenges.&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>Positive and Negative</strong></p>
<p>Most people equate stressors, or things that cause stress, as negative.  The instigator could be traffic, a difficult job, or divorce.  During theses stressful times, often people become aware of tense muscles, headaches, or stomach aches during, before or after such situations.</p>
<p>But stressors can also be very positive experiences.  Having a wedding, a baby, or pitching a perfect no-hit baseball game are examples of changes that can activate your stress response.</p>
<p><strong>The Mechanics of Stress</strong></p>
<p>Your body reacts to stress in many ways.  Stress is defined as a response by your body to any demand made upon it.</p>
<p>Hormones, like adrenalin, surge.  Your blood pressure and heartbeat increases.  These effects on human beings have been unchanged for thousands of years.  Our prehistoric ancestors used this response to help them run away faster, or fight harder.  That is why this reaction is known as the &#8220;fight or flight&#8221; response.  It is a natural response when your mind senses the need</p>
<p><strong>The Effects of Stress</strong></p>
<p>The problem with this automatic response is that the body can&#8217;t tell the difference between a positive or negative stressor.  In either case, your body experiences the same stress effects.</p>
<p>If you are not able to vent by letting off steam somehow, if you don&#8217;t learn to relax, these effects can be harmful.  During periods of stress you may feel exhausted or anxious.  You may experience physical symptoms such as a clenched jaw or shoulder and backache.</p>
<p>If you are able, during these times, take care by getting plenty of rest, eating healthily, exercising and practicing some form of meditation or quiet time.</p>
<p>Alcohol or drugs do not help the situation.</p>
<p>If you are someplace where you are unable to practice the techniques listed above, FOR YOUR SAKE, use your oxygen as a magical and secret weapon.  Breathe deeply and exhale slowly and fully.  When stress enters we withdraw our oxygen supply to a minimum.  This exasperates the tightening of muscles and ligaments.  It can cause headaches, and only makes the situation much worse</p>
<p>Think of your oxygen relaxing and regenerating you.  Know that the oxygen will make your intellect finer.  These are changes that happen to the human body, automatically, just by breathing mindfully.</p>
<p>Stress is like a body temperature; if it&#8217;s too low or to high, you can&#8217;t survive optimally, but the right balance can keep you going strong.  Consider life&#8217;s stressors <strong>challenges, experiences and wisdom builders</strong>.</p>
<p>You can use this mindful breathing even when you are not feeling overwhelmed. Now take a breath and have a wonderful day!</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>When the stress seems out of control,and you think you can&#8217;t handle any more, remember&#8230;..YES YOU CAN!</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/when-the-stress-seems-out-of-controland-you-think-you-cant-handle-any-more-remember-yes-you-can/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/when-the-stress-seems-out-of-controland-you-think-you-cant-handle-any-more-remember-yes-you-can/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 2010 17:54:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hope]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[overwhelmed]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[relief]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=607</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Often we are hit with so much at one time we may think we just can&#8217;t handle it. The secret is, WE CAN!  We have to if we are on a mission to accomplish our goals, whether at work or &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/08/when-the-stress-seems-out-of-controland-you-think-you-cant-handle-any-more-remember-yes-you-can/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Often we are hit with so much at one time we may think we just can&#8217;t handle it. The secret is, WE CAN!  We have to if we are on a mission to accomplish our goals, whether at work or at home.</p>
<p>I will say what I&#8217;ve said in class so many times.  STOP for a minute or two. Take a slow and mindful breath to energize you mind and body. Your exhalation makes room for more healing oxygen.  It is also the time to think, &#8220;I am exhaling and pushing self-defeating thoughts out with the carbon dioxide.&#8221;</p>
<p>Slow down for 30 seconds and pull yourself together. We have been given a great natural instinct from within, to help us find an answer, or at least find a resolve to what seems to be unbelievable circumstances that surround us.  We just must slow down.</p>
<p>Change the subject. Divert your own attention to something else momentarily. Take another mindful breath!</p>
<p>What is the worst that can happen? If you can fathom handling that, you can handle anything. If you think you can&#8217;t, then think again! Life is tough, but we have within our minds, the tools and power to rise above the obstacles.</p>
<p>Stop listening to all the negative things that include the words: I can&#8217;t, I won&#8217;t, I won&#8217;t be able to, I give up, I quit, etc. Never give up.</p>
<p>Just when you think you can&#8217;t handle everything &#8211; everything will change. Give it a bit of time.</p>
<p>Ninety percent of what we waste our lives worrying about never comes to fruition.  STOP wasting your life on &#8220;worry and doubt&#8221;</p>
<p>The worry doesn&#8217;t do anything except hurt you and all those around you. Instead, handle anything that crosses your path. Never give up or give in!  If I sound like a cheerleader I probably am.  I know you can alleviate so much unnecessary stress by just controlling your thoughts, hence, actions.</p>
<p>Now take a breath and relax! It will all be okay.  If you feel you need help &#8211; take the time to seek it out.  There are classes, on line help, counselors, and so much more available.  YOU ARE WORTH it!</p>
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		<title>Stress Management Minute</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/stress-management-minute/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/stress-management-minute/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 18 Jul 2010 15:08:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[breath]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[overwhelmed]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relaxation now]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[relief]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[technique]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[What to do to relieve]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=595</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Good day!  Let&#8217;s begin with a &#8220;mini-relaxation&#8221; right now, right here at the desk.  It will give you a boost no matter what time of day it is! You deserve one minute, don&#8217;t you? Sit with your shoulders down and &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/stress-management-minute/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Good day!  Let&#8217;s begin with a &#8220;mini-relaxation&#8221; right now, right here at the desk.  It will give you a boost no matter what time of day it is! You deserve one minute, don&#8217;t you?</p>
<p>Sit with your shoulders down and relax, but lift your neck to separate the vertebra and discs.  Press your low back into your chair, which in turn will help both the abdominals and back, open the chest area by sitting just a bit straighter.</p>
<p>Now take a breath in through the nose slowly, think about all it WILL do for you mentally and physically.  When you exhale (through the mouth) remember this purging breath will empty the carbon dioxide making room for more oxygen, and it CAN be a house cleaning breath to shoot the negative out the fingertips into oblivion.  That&#8217;s a great thing to do for managing stress.</p>
<p>Take another mindful breath slowly. Think about it working in your body and mind. Now exhale slowly and purge the negative out.  You are in charge of your mind.  Now your oxygenated brain can use that finely tuned intellect to absorb what you need to retain from the balance of today&#8217;s information.</p>
<p>You’ve heard the old adage, “Speak before you think”.  There is so much more wisdom in these four words that we often understand.  Perhaps an even more productive saying could be “Breathe before you speak&#8221;.</p>
<p>Often times when we are under duress, and faced with a difficult scenario, we speak before we actually gather our thoughts together.</p>
<p>When in difficult situations, perhaps facing a screaming combatant, we will actually within draw by holding our breaths.  Think about it. In turn our muscle, tendons and ligaments begin to tighten.</p>
<p>Instinctively we are preparing for the “fight or flight” syndrome and our stance becomes that of preparing for defense. By unconsciously holding our breath we cut off our needed oxygen supply to make a more rational decision.  Our brains need fifty percent more oxygen to think optimally.</p>
<p>We need to put aside any doubt and release any tendency to “make things work out” or to force an outcome.</p>
<p>There is unlimited abundant energy and you direct whether it be positive or negative.  Refuse to be negative and affirm, “I am getting better.”<strong> No matter how you feel at the time, whether you believe it or not, your positive affirmation makes the statement true. </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p>As you speak these words, the body responds with positive energy, growing and healing.  You will create brain cell impressions that reinforce your words.</p>
<p>If you do this expect an attitude of rejuvenation and be grateful for possibilities other wise not known.</p>
<p>We often become “compelled” and then “consumed”, hurrying through life. Compel yourself to seek peace and healing, and be consumed by those things.</p>
<p>Compel yourself to seek better responses to stresses. Don’t give your power away by <strong>reacting to someone else’s emotions</strong>.  Don’t be stripped of your joy in daily life.</p>
<p><strong>Begin to form new habits.   Be compelled and consumed by thoughts that will aid your peace and healing process.</strong></p>
<p><strong>The things that you think, and the quality of your oxygen, will ultimately become your life and health. </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> YOU ARE IN CHARGE OF WHERE YOU GO FROM HERE. </strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong> Breathe and think positively.  Teach your brain to create those “cell impressions” from which you can empower yourself simply through your thoughts, and therein ultimately your body physiology will be changed for the good.</strong></p>
<p>As you speak the words the body responds with positive energy growing.  You will create brain cell impressions that will reinforce your words, and your words, chosen carefully, will help to heal your own body.</p>
<p>Scientists are now proving that &#8220;the ability of <strong>mere thought </strong>to alter the physical structure and function of our gray matter&#8221; is NOT just an idea posed by those who participate in visualizations and meditations.</p>
<p>Mental practice resulted (as seen in a series of tests) in the reorganization of the brain. The scientists also discovered that mental training had the power to change the physical structure of the brain. How cool is that!</p>
<p>So now we know that scientists concur with those of us who participate in mind training (such as visualizations and meditations) to be used to enhance our lives. At all ages the brain retains the ability to change its structure and function in response to thought and / or experience.</p>
<p>Renew your mind, create new brain cells, and heal your heart and every fiber of your body.  Practice using the two options mentioned earlier in this article, and begin to rejuvenate your life.</p>
<p>Breathe and think. Think and speak. Be clear.  Do not let stressful obstructions or hindrances darken your day.  No matter what the situation is (like it or not) you always have the choice in your response.</p>
<p>Sometimes a problem may seem to take on a life of it’s own whispering into your ears.  If something is worrisome shrink the problem to nothingness by commanding your mind to focus on the good in your life and not that perception of desperation so many cling to.</p>
<p>Ninety-nine of all we worry about never comes to being.  It is a fact.<strong> Let it go the</strong> quality of your oxygen, the things that you think about and the words that you use will ultimately become your life and your health.  I repeat<strong>: You are in charge of where you go from here. </strong></p>
<p>Let&#8217;s luxuriate for another minute!  Begin to repeat our personal healing minute.  Sit with your shoulders down and relaxed, but lift your neck to separate the vertebra and discs.  Press your low back into your chain, which in turn will help both the abdominals and back, open the chest area by sitting just a bit straighter.</p>
<p>Now take a breath in through the nose slowly, think about all it WILL do for you mentally and physically.  When you exhale (through the mouth) remember this purging breath will empty the carbon dioxide making room for more oxygen, and it is a way to shoot the negative out the fingertips into oblivion.</p>
<p>Inhale deeply again, please.  Now your oxygenated brain and body can use that finer intellect to bring forth better choices in words and deeds.  Create a wonderful day for yourself and others.  Start an epidemic of smiles!</p>
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		<title>Important Things</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/important-things/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/important-things/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jul 2010 21:21:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=593</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This is for EVERY ONE of you out there is cyberspace!  Whether you are a student, a parent, a child, an employer, an employee, or a senior citizen&#8230;&#8230;take a minute and think about what follows.  Change is possible at ANY &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/important-things/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This is for EVERY ONE of you out there is cyberspace!  Whether you are a student, a parent, a child, an employer, an employee, or a senior citizen&#8230;&#8230;take a minute and think about what follows.  Change is possible at ANY age!</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></strong></p>
<p>After studying and teaching stress management for over thirty years, I have some simple but life altering techniques, observations and realizations.</p>
<p>We all have the power to transform the natural stress that comes from living into energy capable of improving our physical and spiritual health</p>
<p>Secret number one is that the essence of life is transformation. These simple words hold the key for changing your life for the better. Join me in transformation and see if it isn&#8217;t so.  These are thoughts for the day that can transform your life and the lives of others</p>
<p>Cherish your pets and the lives of all animals.  They are gifts to us and can be dear friends.</p>
<p>When someone asks for a donation, try to give with whatever you can &#8211; So many people have been left homeless-and we are not their judges; just their brothers and sisters.</p>
<p>Breathe deeply and mindfully.  Do it again!</p>
<p>Remember to look for all those blessings we take for granted.  The breeze in the trees, the sound of singing birds, the laughter of a child, these are all blessings we can enjoy!</p>
<p>Take a walk. Crunch leaves as they begin to fall from the trees. Watch the changing colors&#8230;it&#8217;s AWESOME.  Love!</p>
<p>Humble beginnings or wealth from the start, what truly matters are things of the heart.</p>
<p>Take your family for a walk, or just do something spontaneous for fun together.  Love deeply.</p>
<p>Don’t keep yourself in a prison.  Take a break from your electronics and refresh the memory of talking to a real human, or sitting in the sunshine!</p>
<p>Take a breath.  Stretch.  Smile.</p>
<p>Make a point of actually playing with your children while they are small. Catch a fish, catch a ball, and catch precious moments. We are only here for one short period of time.</p>
<p>Watch the sun rise as darkness lifts, watch the sunset.  How many times have you left to see the stars at night or revel in the full moon?  Not enough in a lifetime for me.</p>
<p>If you can’t leave – take a mental vacation.  Even if it’s just for a minute or two, visualize a favorite place.  Listen to the sounds of nature.  Take a breath and use your mind to renew your zest for life.</p>
<p>Cherish the earth.  It is our home.</p>
<p>Cherish your body.  It is the only place your Spirit has to live!</p>
<p>Don’t let the sour expressions or negative attitudes of people affect your day.</p>
<p>Let your light shine through and be grateful for small miracles.  Start a cycle of sharing smiles and positive thoughts.</p>
<p><strong>Say a prayer kneeling, with head bent and a humble heart and God will tend to your needs.</strong></p>
<p>Take a breath and exhale all your negative thoughts.  Create a wonderful weekend for you and those you love!</p>
<p>Every single thought listed on this post is a form of stress management!  Our thoughts guide our actions.  Our actions build our lives.  Make them &#8220;right&#8221; thoughts and &#8220;thoughtful&#8221; actions.  It is a choice!</p>
<p>You can do it!</p>
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		<title>Stress Managed Moment by Moment</title>
		<link>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/stress-managed-moment-by-moment/</link>
		<comments>http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/stress-managed-moment-by-moment/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 08 Jul 2010 14:49:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Marsha</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crisis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family Stress]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fast Tips]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Relationship Stress]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/?p=585</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You CAN meet and rise above ANY stress that manifests in your life.  It just takes practice to create the brain cells that will be poised and dynamically respond with positive force. The first step is to take a deep &#8230; <a href="http://www.stressmanagementmagic.com/2010/07/stress-managed-moment-by-moment/">Continue reading <span class="meta-nav">&#8594;</span></a>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>You CAN meet and rise above ANY stress that manifests in your life.  It just takes practice to create the brain cells that will be poised and dynamically respond with positive force.</strong></p>
<p>The first step is to take a deep and mindful plug of oxygen into your oxygen machine!  When in difficult situations, whether it&#8217;s loosing a database, or perhaps facing a screaming combatant, we actually hold our breaths.  Think about it.  In turn our muscles, tendon and ligaments begin to tighten.</p>
<p>Instinctively we are preparing for the &#8220;fight or flight&#8221; syndrome and our stance becomes that of preparing for defense.  By unconsciously holding our breath we cut off our needed oxygen supply to make a more rational decision.  Our brains need fifty percent more oxygen to think optimally.</p>
<p>We need to put aside any doubt and release any tendency to &#8220;make things work out&#8221; or to force an outcome.</p>
<p>There is unlimited and abundant energy and you are in charge of whether it is positive or negative.</p>
<p>One of the most important exercises in managing stress is to expect the unexpected, and keep a habit of storing in your brain the belief that we are able to handle whatever happens to us!</p>
<p>None of us knows from moment to moment what our lives will challenge us with next.  In order to begin to manage stress we must be flexible to the idea that a new challenge may pop up, one we never dreamed would happen, and that no matter what we will meet the challenge.</p>
<p>The next step to begin real management of stress is to REFUSE to be negative and affirm, &#8220;I am getting better.  The situation will resolve with my calm perseverance.&#8221;  No matter how you feel at the time, whether you believe it or not, your positive affirmations make the statements true.</p>
<p>As you speak the words the body responds with positive energy growing and healing.  You will create brain cell impressions that reinforce your words. Do this repeatedly and you will find at some point that the thoughts automatically come to fruition in your mind and you will find a positive resolve with peace and the use of your own calm intellect.  It will happen!</p>
<p>Now take a few deep breaths and when you exhale remember your exhalations are making room for more wonderful oxygen to think optimally. Visualize all the negativity flying from your fingertips into oblivion and use your inhalations as a power surge for the mind and the body.  CREATE a wonderful day for yourself and those around you!</p>
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