4 simple ways to beat stress

Stress can affect your health in more ways than one: it can lead to weight gain, insomnia and other more severe conditions such as heart disease. Here are 4 simple ways to help beat stress for a healthier life.

Choose a tangible object that symbolizes positive energy, tranquillity or victory to you and keep it where you can see it during your day. Your work desk is a good spot.

• Most times, it really doesn't take much to check yourself back into an attitude you can capitalize on and move forward with.
• Maybe your object is simply a shell from a beautiful beach or a trinket that's a sign of your faith.
• If you hit a rough patch during the day, hold, touch or look at your object and think about what it means to you.

Post the photo of an inspirational person on your fridge, or keep the picture on your bathroom mirror.

• People who were successful despite huge obstacles are great reminders that you can succeed no matter what you face.
• Your hero might be Rosa Parks, Chris Hadfield, Albert Einstein or your own grandfather.
• You'll get an instant morale boost when you stop to comb your hair or make a meal and you see his or her face.

Don't say anything to yourself that you wouldn't say to someone else. Many of us are so used to being hard on ourselves that we don't even notice we're doing it.

• What do you say to yourself when your blood sugar spikes or you forget to take a pill? Is it helpful or belittling?
• A good way to check is to ask, "Would I say this out loud to a friend?" If the answer is no, it's a good sign that you're not being fair to yourself or helpful to your cause.
• Instead, think of what you would say to a friend to be helpful and encouraging, and use that dialogue with yourself.

Indulging in regular manicures, pedicures, massages or haircuts will boost your self-esteem. Taking the time to give yourself some TLC at least once a month reinforces the idea that you're worth it.