By Isabella Louise Anderson

Ladies, doesn’t it seem that our lives get busier as each day passes? Stress is so common to some that we’ve just learned to deal with it. This isn’t healthy, nor is it good for us or any of our relationships! The other day my dad told me that I need a vacation! I guess he’s right. He sees that I’m under stress and that I need to get away. Unfortunately, my schedule doesn’t allow it right now, so I have to eliminate stress in a different way. While most can’t jump on a private plane and head off to a deserted island like celebs do when stressed or tired (cough, cough, Kim Kardashian), here are a few of my favorite ways to de-stress!

READ: I love books – so much that I might have too many books and not enough shelves. Oops! Not only is reading one of my favorite things to do, it’s also my favorite way to de-stress! It’s a great way for your mind to escape into a new world and with new friends/family (characters), but sometimes finding that perfect read can be tough. Try going to bookstores like B&N, or even try Goodreads.com. When you pick out that perfect thing to read, you’ll be surprised at how your mind won’t be veering off track. If you give this a try, you won’t be disappointed. You might even find new writers you enjoy! And of course sipping a glass of wine or hot tea while reading can help too!

RUN/WALK: Imagine being pulled in different directions and all you want to do is run (or walk) away, right? Well, do it! Get out of the house and allow your mind to breath. You deserve this time to take time for yourself, (I recommend at least 30 minutes). Whether it’s around your neighborhood or at a gym, being active can revitalize you immensely! You will feel refreshed and ready to tackle any tasks that come your way (and you’ll be burning calories)! I love to get my iPhone, turn on Pandora and plug in my headphones – then, I’m off and into my own world!

NAP: If you’re stressed, napping is very important. Chances are that your mind is spinning at high-speed! Admit it, you’re exhausted! You think you don’t have time to take a nap, but believe me you can make time and you need it. Even taking a nap on your lunch break can help! Like after running or walking, you’ll feel refreshed and won’t be so blurry-eyed when trying to focus.

CRY: Women are known to be emotional and that's okay, even when our Aunt Flow isn’t in for her visit. Every woman needs a good cry, and it doesn’t have to be about anything at all. When I’m stressed, I’ll allow the tears to flow and minutes later, I’m back to normal. It’s like noting ever happened, and my stress is gone. Don’t worry about feeling weak or silly about doing this, but feel relieved that you can now move on with your day or night.

PAMPER YOURSELF: Pampering yourself can be very relaxing. It can make your bad days turn great! Take time (depending on how extreme you want to go) to prepare a spa-like experience for yourself. Fill a pitcher with water and your favorite fruit to keep your body hydrated. Go buy all the necessary tools for a manicure, and pick your favorite color of polish (I like OPI the best because of the names). Last but not least, one of the most relaxing way to take away your stresses is to take a bubble bath! If you’re a mom and can’t find any bubble bath, it’s okay to use your child’s suds too. Mr. Bubbles will work just fine. Turn on calming music (I like Peter Cetera or Rod Stewart’s “Songbook” collection), and soak your troubles away!

How do you relieve stress? Share your tips with us! I wish you all a happy and stress-free summer!

Isabella Louise Anderson is a member of the RWA, and she is the owner of the website Chick Lit Goddess. She resides in Dallas, Texas, where she’s a housewife and mother to 12-year-old cat, Thorndike. A regular contributor at Good Humor Girl, you can read all Isabella's articles and learn more about Isabella.