Here are 7 simple things you can do to help you manage and reduce your stress to avoid chronic health conditions like headaches, insomnia, neck pain, back pain, and even digestive issues.

Stress is a big topic and there are many different ways to manage and reduce stress. Not properly dealing with stress or finding ways to cope with stress can lead to many chronic stress related health issues like headaches, insomnia, neck and back pain, and even digestive issues to name a few. Here are 7 simple things you can do to help you manage and reduce your stress.

1. Meditate or Try Breathing Exercises

Studies have shown that meditation is a great way to reduce stress and help you manage stress in the long run. This can be as simple as 5-minute sessions each day or every other day. You don't have to be perfect or an expert for it to work either. The simplest form is as easy as deep and steady breathing. There are also many phone apps available to help remind you to meditate and guide you in meditation for both beginners and experts.

2. Reduce Caffeine and Alcohol

Excessive caffeine use can not only give you the jitters, it can also exacerbate the feelings of stress and anxiety. If you find yourself feeling wound up and tense after drinking coffee or tea, consider reducing the amount you consume. Drinking too much late in the day can also disrupt sleep, making you tired the next day and less able to manage stressful situations.

While alcohol can help reduce stress and unwind, excessive use and dependency can have the opposite effect. Like with caffeine, moderation is key.

3. Talk to Someone

Another great tool for managing stress is by simply letting it out and talking to someone. That could be a friend, family, or counselor. Bottling it in and letting the stress run circles around your head can be very mentally and emotionally taxing but talking to someone about it can relieve that pressure.

4. Write it Down

Just as talking to someone about your stress can be helpful, another outlet for your stress can be as simple as writing it down. Take a moment to write it down your thoughts with a pen or pencil on paper. Write down what is stressing you, what are the possible outcomes of the situation, and what are some proactive steps you can take to manage the stressful situation. This is a great way to process the stress and maybe even help you come to a helpful resolution.

5. Make a To Do List

If the number of tasks and things you have to do is what is stressing you out, making a list can be very helpful. One of things that is stressful about having a lot of things to do is simply remembering everything you have to do. Instead, take a moment to make a to do list to help you keep things organized and you can see progress as you complete them and check them off.

6. Learn to Say No

Saying no can be difficult. It may be as small as declining an invitation or as complicated as setting boundaries and standing up for yourself. Whatever it is, it's ok to say no. Your physical, mental, and emotional health are very important and sometimes saying no firmly is what is needed.

7. Try Some At-Home Acupressure

There are 2 acupoints along the wrist that are easily accessible. Holding your hand up with your palm facing you, the first one is directly below your ring finger along the wrist line — where your wrist bends.

Holding your hand in the same position, you can find the second one by starting from the middle of the wrist line, trace about 2 inches down and then half an inch towards the direction of your thumb, right next to the tendon. Either arm can be used for these points, just remember to mirror them.

Whatever is causing you to feel stressed or overwhelmed, try these techniques to help manage or reduce your stress.