You earned that promotion but now you’re learning a new position causing your stress levels to sky rocket. You scored a big account but are stressing over all of the new details. Or life is just simply a little hectic and it’s not helping that we just got a foot of new snow.

When left unchecked, stress can affect your body, your thoughts and feelings and your behavior. It can even lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. Whatever the source of your stress, find comfort in knowing there are many ways to prevent and reduce it.

Here are 5 simple tips:

Take control of your diet– While you’re probably attached to your ten cups of am coffee, reducing the amount of stimulants you take in will help calm you down and allow you to focus. Often stress causes us to lapse on healthy eating- going for easy comfort foods such as pastas and microwave meals rather than healthy veggies and proteins. Make an effort to purchase your fair share of health foods so you can easily snack on an orange rather than a hot pocket. For great options visit the new Whole Foods in Edina.

 Aromatherapy– This is one of the most effortless yet effective ways to reduce stress. The combination of both scented candles and oils is known to increase the effectiveness of anxiety reduction. If you can, purchase a yummy candle in your favorite scent to have at your desk. Ampersand at the Galleria has a wonderful selection of candles and oils to meet all of your aromatherapy needs.

 Exercise- Virtually any form of exercise can act as a stress reliever. Not only will it pump up your endorphins and take your mind off of the burdens of your day but it can also improve your sleep, making each day brighter. For a wonderful place to relax and strengthen your body, sign up for a class at the fabulous Kula Yoga in Edina.

 Maintain social support- Sometimes venting and talking through things is the best way to make yourself feel better or bring something to light that is bothering you. A regular coffee date or drinks with girlfriends may be just the thing to make you realize others share your worries and everyone can get through them.

 Massage- When all else fails, pamper yourself with a delightful massage or body treatment. Spalon Montage provides a peaceful setting complete with a cozy fireplace and heated neck wraps. From hot stone therapy to reflexology to a soothing body wrap, every service will leave you feeling relaxed and blissful.

Let Brass Tacks take some “to-do’s” off your hands so you can focus on the above!