Too much stress is bad for the health and can be linked to increase the risk of heart disease. Many people are also living more stressful lives with more responsibilities and commitments. When there is more to do and less time to do it in many people find it difficult to cope.

Therefore, if you suffer from stress on a regular basis then, for the sake of your health you need to look at your current lifestyle and begin to make positive changes to reduce it. The following are 4 strategies you may want to consider:

Strategy One
There are many habits that people live by during the day that compound the effects of stress. Many of these are bad and unhealthy habits that they use to combat stress turning the scenario into a vicious circle. For example, peoples eating habits can increase their levels of stress. Therefore, make an effort to reduce your intake of drinks that contain high levels of caffeine such as coffee and cola drinks. Many people cope with stress by trying to relax by drinking alcohol however, this can become a habit which makes the stress worse. Replace these drinks with natural alternatives such as fresh fruit juice as these are nutritious and far better for you and your stress.

Strategy Two
Do you dwell on the past and worry too much about the future? If you do you are not the only one as most people do it. It is staggering how much energy people waste regretting what they done or what they did not do in the past. This habit also makes them worry more about the future which increases their stress levels. What is important is right now. The past is gone and the future does not exist so there is no point in worrying about. Focus on what you have now and relax about it.

Strategy Three
People increase their levels of stress through negative thinking. They dwell on the negative situations in their life which compounds the problem. A lot of pressure is put on people through the media and lifestyle magazines on how to live perfect and stress free lives. Well, let me tell you something it does not existing. So stop fretting over it and focus on what you have and not on what you do not have.

Strategy Four
You need to create a plan that will deal with your stress. This can involve taking regular exercise which will help you deal more effectively with it. Meditation or yoga is also very helpful with dealing with stress. Set aside a day where you can chill out by yourself or with the people you love and simply enjoy every second of it.