1. De-Clutter

It is very difficult to relax while living in and around clutter. Clutter is defined as disorganized things you do not love, that are unfinished and take up space within your life. It is impossible to relax while your unfinished tasks stare you in the face.

Every time our eyes see them or our attention is brought to them we feel overwhelmed by the fact that there is just one more thing to be done. So, the first thing you'll need for you stress-free living is de-clutter your home and your working space, which not only look great, but will also give you that inner piece you might be lacking.

2. Create a Relaxing Atmosphere

This will happen as you de-clutter, but create a space within your home that promotes relaxation. This should be a place that can be your retreat, where you can sit back and relax with a good book, a cup of tea, a facial mask or whatever hits the spot for you.

Many people find the methodic sight and sounds of a tabletop water fountain to be a great aid to help create an atmosphere and ambiance that promotes rest and relaxation. For others it's classic music and the smell of fresh cut flowers that makes them feel calm and relaxed. Either way, create a space within your house where you can feel absolutely relaxed. Use it every day for as long as you wish.

3. Eat Healthy

This is not a new concept, yet many still seem to fight against it. Healthy eating is a lifestyle and it must become a life long pattern. Your body will respond to what you put into it, you know, garbage in, garbage out! But eating healthy doesn’t mean eating cardboard, there's plenty of healthy yet yummy food choices out there.

My personal favorites are fruit, whole wheat organic bread and great healthy snacks, like Smart Food popcorn clusters and 100 Calorie Sun Chips which I always have in the car just in case I get hungry in between the meals.

4. Exercise

Regular movement (or exercise) is equally important. This may seem like an oxymoron, but exercise brings vitality and energy and actually reduces stress while combating many potential health hazards including depression. Exercise is much more than a method to loose a few pounds; it helps revitalize the mind and body and, plain and simple, it feels good. It is important to find the right exercise plan that will fit you and your lifestyle.

5. Sleep

It is imperative to let your body receive the physical rest it needs. Many people get so busy that sleep seems to get in the way of all the things that need to be done. Make sleep a priority. Schedule it into your day timer of you need to. Nothing refreshes and re-vitalizes the body, like a good nights sleep.

Show me a person that has incorporated these 5 components into their life and I will show you a person who is not an uptight ball of anxiety ready to explode. We all have the control over our lives either to live and enjoy a healthy balance or simply be sucked into the chaos around us. The trouble is if we don’t purposely choose to relax we default to the other.

Do you have some favorite techniques that make your stress melt away? Please share with us!

This post is brought to you by Only in A Woman's World.