Stress is Universal

This week, while going through the web I came across an interesting piece from Health Magazine. The piece explains how different countries deal with stress. I just thought that some of the ideas were so interesting that I'd share them here. One of the interesting tips I came across was the Russian practice of going to a banta (a hot sauna). While most of us don't have ready access to a sauna, we do have access to a hot shower, and I think that hot showers are some of the most relaxing things. In both Argentina and Sweden people use a more social approach to deal with stress; in Sweden people often take coffee breaks with friends and in Argentina its common to partake in the sharing of mate, an herbal drink. Both of these practices are great because the sharing of food with friends release oxytocin into the body.  In India, many practice laughing often- the surge of endorphins can help raise anyones mood. So I suggest calling up a funny friend or watching a great comedy every . In Ireland people often go for a walk- the brisk activity will produce endorphins, lower anxiety and the sunlights will help boost your mood. And in China, many practice zu  yu, placing feet in hot water for  about 15 minutes. This is easily replicable and well help improve circulation. So those were my favorites, but theres lots more, so click the link above!