Stress is inevitable. Stress comes from many sources: relationships (or lack of), work (or lack of), health challenges, daily overwhelm, education, finances, balancing fun activities, etc. Far too often we unintentionally crank up our stress in ways that are entirely preventable!

First of all, to handle stress, we need certain physical and mental resources. How we acquire that is significantly dependent upon our physical and mental health, and how we nourish them. A body and mind that is depleted will not have the reserves to handle stress. Far too often we try to make up for the deficiencies by slamming the body with false pick-me-ups that may work at the time; however, they frequently result in further diminishing an already compromised system.

These false pick-me-ups include things such as sugar, coffee, energy drinks, energy supplements, drugs, participating in explicit movies or Internet sites, and the list goes on. The ingestible forms could so easily be exchanged for things that build up the body's resources, rather than tearing them down, thereby enabling better stress control. For most, that just takes a little bit of tweaking.

For instance, substituting coffee for healthy herbal teas, such as ginseng or astragalus can lift you up, without depleting you. Eating healthy meals with ample amounts of veggies, and quality proteins are building, rather than going for the junk carbs and fast foods that tend to deplete more than build.

Getting ample sleep rejuvenates the system. According to the CDC, an estimated 60 million Americans are sleep deprived. Racing thoughts frequently keep them awake, but is also controllable with simple exercises. Speaking of exercise, even short walks around the office or neighborhood are helpful in reducing stress.

What we do with our life makes a difference. If we are self-absorbed, stress tends to be higher. By contrast, those who serve others actually benefit by feeling good about their accomplishments, and that reduces the impact of stress. Many times, it also helps to gain perspective when you help someone who has greater challenges than yourself. Along that line of thinking is to express gratefulness. The more we appreciate what we have, the better we feel overall.

Of course other things like eliminating unnecessary commitments, getting things done in good timing rather than procrastinating (and feeling the continued pressure on your shoulders), organizing your surroundings and time better, controlling what you can and letting go of those things you have no control over, simplifying your life, and creating a more relaxed environment, are all classics that help with stress.

Dealing with health issues will also allow for more energy to handle stress. Using acupuncture, herbal medicine, food as medicine, etc. are critical components for getting healthy.

Life is full of stress. If we do the right things to reduce the impact of stress on us, and not crank up the stress by doing things that deplete us, our response to stress will be much healthier.

Learn more by attending our upcoming health class, "Stress-Shrinking Skills," 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 8 in Coeur d'Alene. Fee: $10. RSVP: (208) 765-1994.

Holly Carling is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Licensed Acupuncturist, Doctor of Naturopathy, Clinical Nutritionist and Master Herbologist with more than 32 years of experience. Carling is currently accepting new patients and offers natural health-care services and whole food nutritional supplements in her Coeur d'Alene clinic. Visit Carling's website at www.vitalhealthandfitness.com to learn more about Carling, view a list of upcoming health classes and read other informative articles. Carling can be reached at (208) 765-1994 and would be happy to answer any questions regarding this topic.