Stress can take a toll on anyone's system, but did you know that excessive stress can cause hair loss?

Years ago life was fairly simple. Sure there was a certain amount of stress in everyone's life, but nothing like today. A certain amount of stress is actually healthy and good for us, but too much stress can break down our immune system and our body's ability to replenish and restore itself.

There are some natural stress and anxiety relief methods that are very effective and extremely simple!

At Home

• Relax in a warm bath - I know it means slowing down and forcing yourself to have some "me" time. Make a deal with your spouse to watch the family and you'll cook dinner tomorrow;
• Listen to relaxing music - either on CD, tape, or go to a concert;
• Take time to play (especially with animals) - Animals are very non-judgmental and extremely grateful for time spent with them. You can't lose, unless you have allergies!
• Listen or read a fun book - especially right before bed. It is a fantastic way to distract your mind for a while and forget all the things on your "to do" list.
• Spend time with your loved ones - Spending time with your loved ones not only helps distract you from stress related concerns, it also strengthens relationships. It is well worth the time invested!
• Engage in deep breathing and meditation techniques - This is my absolute favorite. The important thing to remember here, is be proactive. Don't wait until the stress is at it's peak. Do simple meditation and breathing techniques throughout your day.

Sound simple enough? They really are! The key to success is learning to relax. That really is the point.

At Work

• Take time management and organization skills courses to help better organize your schedule - I've witnessed this over and over in my work environment. Sometimes the hardest workers are the least productive and they exhaust themselves doing it. Learn to simplify your work and be more productive!
• Take communication skills courses to learn how to communicate effectively with co-workers - Learn techniques like when and how to say "no" to additional projects and forums.
• Learn to delegate when appropriate - So often we want to do everything ourselves so we know it will get done, exactly as we want it. I see this in managers and leaders all the time! Trust your employees, empower them to grow. You'll do everyone a favor.
• Eat a healthy lunch away from your immediate work station - It is so easy to work nonstop throughout the day to meet deadlines and not let anyone down. Reality is this, if you just take a few minutes to break away, mentally you will gain momentum and you will be replenishing your body with nutrition to keep your mind and body going.
• Go for short walks throughout the day to allow your body time to mentally and physically relax - Work of any kind wears a person down...sometimes more mental, other jobs more physical, but a person needs to allow muscles to recover throughout the day to be more effective.
• Learn to laugh - Sometimes it's hard when you are trying to be focused and get a job done, but laughing relieves a lot stress. Take time to enjoy the lighter side of your job too!
• Talk to a confidant - Everyone needs a friend to visit with. I am not encouraging the gossip scene in the office by the water cooler. I am saying, when you need to diffuse, confide in a friend so stress doesn't gain momentum. Relieving stress a little at a time is much more healthy. Remember not to dwell on negatives; discuss solutions and exercise constructive problem solving skills!

Although these are very simple steps to relieve stress, many people avoid them. How much more will we have to offer our employer, our family and our friends if we would adopt some of the best stress relievers...and they are free!

Meditation for stress relief in any form will help in the aid of mental stress relief. Since stress can cause hair loss, in addition to many other complicated health problems, treat yourself to some TLC!