Step Out Of Your Stress Cycle

Discover your pressure path and learn how to take a more relaxed route. If you agree with three or more of the statements in the four-stress cycle below, you could be in danger of slipping into that tension trap.

Stress cycle 1

I'm not a spontaneous person, I react badly to change, I 'over think' situations, I live in the past, I prefer things the way they were, or It happens when: Your life is disrupted by something major (a new job or home, getting married or breaking up) and you find yourself feeling unable to cope.

Stop the slide: Don't wallow in what was actively try to address new circumstances. The things we get stressed about often haven't happened yet and may, in fact, never happen. You should talk about your fears with a friend - this can drastically reduce anxiety levels.

Stress cycle 2

I put others before myself, I find it hard to say no, I'm scared of upsetting people, I crave love, I often feel guilty, or It happens when: You're caught in the compassion trap of constantly striving to please others.

Stop the slide: start saying 'No', if you don't want to do something, start your response with a positive. So, if your mum asks to see you, say, 'I miss you, but I can't make it'. Then arrange a visit when you have less on. That way she feels loved and you don't feel so bad.

Stress cycle 3

I never leave the office on time, I often cancel appointments, I never have enough 'me time', I'm a perfectionist, I don't have a weekend free for the next month, or It happens when: You put all your energy into your job and your social life, leaving no time to relax, and your life lacks balance.

Stop the slide: Escape the long-hours culture. Make yourself leave work on time three days a week. Arrange things you can't get out of - book theater tickets, make a restaurant reservation. If you know you have to leave, it will help you get everything done. Also, pencil two 'me nights' a week into your diary and don't plan anything for those days - simply go home and relax.