Erase Stress For Good

In an article from January 2011 issue of Better Homes and Garden magazine, if you are feeling a little on edge, you should try sharpening your serenity skills. Environmental triggers can set off the body's stress response without you even realizing it, says psychologist Shelly Carson, Ph.D.  Below are four annoyances worth nixing:

1. Ambient Racket: Studies show that back-ground noise from TV droning in another room, stimulates the release of the stress hormone cortisol.  If you can't quiet the clamor, try to distance yourself.

2. Wardrobe Woes: Itchy sweaters, too-tight hosiery, pumps that pinch.  An uncomfortable ensemble can leave you on edge all day.  So when choosing an outfit, don't focus on how it looks until you consider how it feels.  Not comfy?  Slip on something else.

3. Chronic Clutter: It's not how much stuff you have; it's how you store it.  Stress sets in when objects are hard to find or appear disorderly.  Two quick moves that help: Clear tabletops and pick up loose objects from the floor.]

4. "Urgent" E-Mail: E-mail cause more stress for women than men because women feel greater pressure to respond immediately.  So try turning off your e-mail alerts, and check your in-box when the timing is right for you.