Stress Relief

My question is pretty simple. I've been having some minor health issues (headaches, trouble sleeping, etc) and I think it's probably stress related. Got any tips on how relieve everyday stress?

Before I get into the long-form answer to today's question, I'm obligated to once again recommend that this reader, as well as anyone else who has similar problems, to consult a medical professional if these issues persist. Sure, headaches and irregular sleep patterns can be indicators of unmanaged stress, but they can also be symptoms of a variety of other problems. Not to stress you out even more, reader, but it's not a good idea to self-diagnose. See a doctor. Even if you're a stressed but healthy person, you'll at least get a routine check-up out of the deal. Now, onto the meat of your question.

Stress, like most other everyday health issues, really ought to be approached with a set of common-sense habit adjustments. Just like weight loss and *mild depression, workaday stress can be managed with a balanced diet and regular exercise. But more on that in a minute.

*I have to take a moment to emphasize the distinction between mild depression and heavier instances of the condition. Everybody gets a little blue now and then, but some of us need some extra assistance. Intense listlessness, feelings of disconnection or depersonalization, and/or thoughts of suicide don't count as mild depression and any individual experiencing those sensations ought to consult a professional.

Now, back to diet and exercise. In the case of stress, you don't need to cut calories but you should probably re-evaluate your average daily menu. Too much caffeine or sugar can put a lot of extra physiological pressure on you while tricking you into thinking that energetic=jittery. Replacing that morning cup of coffee with an equal amount of orange juice can do wonders. I'll never recommend that anyone adopts a soy and granola diet, but as a proud omnivore it's a good idea to put that "omni" to good use and diversify your intake.

As for exercise, there's no need to get a gym membership and start hitting the weight machines. A good half hour of cardiovascular activity (walking, jogging, jumping rope, or anything else to get your heart pumping) should do the trick. Our species may spend a lot more time sitting at our desks these days, but that doesn't change the fact that homo sapiens sapiens evolved to cross the savannah on foot.

You should also do your best to include as much leisure activity in your life as possible. Play some video games, go to the movies, strum a guitar. Whatever gives you your jollies, do it more. And speaking of jollies, don't let yourself get sexually pent-up. Regular relief, by whatever means are safe and available, can keep those insistent hormones from playing havoc with your troubled heart.

Finally, don't self-medicate. Alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and a variety of more illicit substances can have a short-term relaxation effect, but the harm of making their use habitual far outweighs the immediate benefits. Keep the drugs away from your headachey, sleep-deprived self.