We are all familiar with the word “balance”. It is a rather simple term, yet sometimes very difficult to achieve in life. The more we are “in balance”, the happier and healthier we feel. When we get out of balance by working too much, eating too much, or not exercising enough, the outcome is usually illness or fatigue. The unfortunate thing is that when some of us realize we need to change, we are over achievers and become unbalanced on the other end of the spectrum (too much exercise, restricted diet) that can lead to other stressors to the body.

Stress overload to the body will normally manifest as fatigue, distorted posture, low back pain, and stiffness in the neck to mention a few possible side effects. If you experience any of the above problems, you know it is time to make some changes in your life to obtain more balance. Below are five simple steps that can assist in finding balance in this ever-changing world.

Step 1 – Evaluate your job/career. Are you happy with your job? If not, take steps to rectify the situation. One example is to set goals for the year, especially if you know you want to make a career change. If the situation is stressful and you want out, set a time line so you can see the light at the end of the tunnel. We all spend too much time working and if you are not happy with your work, it spills over to the rest of your life and creates mental and emotional stress. If you own your own business, focus on taking care of your customers/clients and offer the best service or goods. If you have good intentions, success will follow.

Step 2 – Improve quality time with family and friends. If there are issues here, take steps to resolve with good communication and good intentions for everyone involved.

Step 3 – Evaluate your exercise and nutrition program. Don’t make this the focal point of your life, but if you are inactive and eat poorly, you will not feel healthy. It is easy to make simple changes to start. Begin a walking program (or walk you dog more). Eat more fruits and vegetables and more natural foods. We all know good nutrition, the key is to enjoy your foods and eat healthy at least 80% of the time. And if you slip, don’t be too hard on yourself, just enjoy those few extra calories.

Step 4 – Simplify your life by spending less money on luxuries. If you are experiencing some financial difficulties, scale back, less is more in this case. The less you own, the less you have to stress about and fewer bills to pay. The key here is don’t buy things that you really don’t need or can afford.

Step 5 – Seek help through alternative wellness modalities. If you feel like your stress levels have negatively impacted your health and you are experiencing headaches, backaches, or postural distortions, you may have stress locked into the physical structures of the body. As a Body Stress Release Practitioner, I test the body for stress that is “locked-in” and release it with a gentle but precise stimulation. Once this occurs, self-healing takes place and balance can be restored.

Sherri Hered’s new practice is in Scottsdale. You can reach her at sherri.hered@gmail.com or by phone at 480-252-2274. To learn more visit www.bodystressrelease.us.