Guest Author - Nicole Miller

Making a few simple New Year’s resolutions may help you reduce the number of stress headaches you experience in the coming year. They may not always be easy to keep, but the pay off will be worth it.

1. Stress less

Sounds easy, right? Reducing stress in your life may seem like an insurmountable task at times, especially if you are already feeling overwhelmed. But reducing stress will help prevent those tension headaches that come on as a result. Start small with things such as prioritizing your To Do lists, taking time to relax, and spending time doing fun things with friends and loved ones—laughter is a natural stress reducer.

2. Sleep more

Restful sleep allows your body to recover from the stress and demands of the day. It also prepares you for the day ahead. People with healthy, consistent sleep habits generally experience fewer stress headaches. Make an effort to establish a sleep routine, aiming for 7-8 hours per night, and maintain your sleep schedule even on weekends. Invest in a VCR or DVR to record those prime-time television shows you’re worried about missing!

3. Diet

Weight loss is on the top of many people’s New Year’s resolution list, but unfortunately it is probably the most frequently abandoned resolution too. But, when it comes to preventing stress headaches, eating a healthy, balanced diet is more important than aiming for weight loss. Getting the energy and nutrients essential to good health is an important part of enabling your body to deal with stress. Check out the new and personalized Food Guide Pyramid (www.mypyramid.com) and look for small ways to start improving your diet in the New Year.

4. Exercise

Starting an exercise regimen is another common resolution often abandoned shortly after the New Year. However, exercise is one of the most effective things you can do to reduce tension and prevent stress headaches. Exercise not only keeps your body in top shape for dealing with stress, but it also releases chemicals in your body that naturally reduce muscle tension. If you already exercise regularly, keep up the hard work! If not, start slowly and set a goal to increase physical activity daily until you reach the recommended goal of 60 minutes of exercise per day. Consult with your physician if needed.

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