A major problem with Americans is that they are so caught up in their jobs, and other work. It's like we can't seem to slow down. We never take the time to step back and calm down. This leads to major stress issues. I heard a commercial on the radio a little while ago for "Happy Days". They were advertising a pill that would make you optimistic and cheerful. Has our lifestyle really brought us to the point of medicated happiness? All we really have to do is take some time to ourselves and calm down.

One great way to relieve stress is to simply take fifteen minutes each day to sit and meditate. Whenever you find that your stress levels are escalating, or even if you've got some free time go and meditate in a quiet space. Do whatever you have to do to put yourself at ease. For some people, that means simply listening to themselves breathe. For others it means humming quietly. Personally, I like to sit on my bed and try to empty head of all thoughts. It is a very difficult exercise to do, and so it takes my mind off of whatever is bothering me.

The next thing to do once you have calmed down is to realize what has caused this stressful situation. This step is very important because if you can identify this stress catalyst, you can eventually avoid it or make it so it is less stressful. Many times what you will realize is that if a certain person is causing you stress, you often demonstrate that same quality, and therefore you neutralize the cause.

By removing or reducing stress in your life, you make a happier and healthier life for yourself. Scientists have shown that those people that take time to meditate have less headaches, lower blood sugar, lower heart rates, and much less risks for heart attack, stroke, and many other harmful illnesses. I know that you are busy, or you have no time to meditate, but it is well worth it. When you are stressed out, those around you are affected as well. All it takes is fifteen minutes every day, or even less. You will see that you are much happier within the week. You can become a calm and happy person, and you do not even have to order medication from a radio station to do it.