I hope you've managed to stay cool in this record-breaking summer. I'm lucky to live in the prairies where we've had a cooler than average summer, so extreme heat didn't affect us this year. Only a few more weeks to go before the warm days of summer disappear to make room for beautiful and cool fall days decorated with colorful leaves.

It means that you likely have a couple of weeks before your stress levels increase again. Kids will soon go back to school and various extra-curricular activities will fill your already packed schedule… Fortunately, there are always ways to relax, if you remember to take a few minutes to take care of yourself once in a while.

Did you know that stress also affects your oral health? By relaxing, you help improve your immune system and reduce teeth grinding. Research has shown that stressed people are more likely to have gum disease!

Here are some ideas on how to relax when you feel stressed out. You can read the full articles, which include references to scientific studies here:

1. Practice heart-centered breathing

2. Re-connect with your purpose and adjust your to-do list accordingly

3. Write things down

4. Take control of the situation

5. Talk to your boss

6. Go outside and exercise

7. Enjoy a cup of tea

8. Chew gum if you're feeling stressed

9. Enjoy dark chocolate (in small quantities!)

10. Stop and smell the roses

Book of the Month

Don't forget to check out my my two book-of-the-month recommendations.

Remember to Relax