We are a nation of stressed out mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, grandparents, wives, husbands... you get the idea.

Its easy to get caught up in the spiral of everyday life and forget to honor your spirit and body. Studies have shown that stress causes or exacerbates ailments such as strokes, heart attacks, high blood pressure, etc.

But do any of these facts, slow you down?

Chances are the answer to the question is no. Unfortunately, many people do not take the time to unwind, until its too late and they are lying in a hospital bed.

Stress reduction techniques vary. Below are four easy stress management techniques:

Take five minutes out of your day and sit by yourself with your eyes closed. If you are a busy parent, student or working stiff like the rest of us, it may prove difficult, but its important that you find some time for yourself.

The five minutes can come at the end of the day, right before you go to sleep. This is also a great way to unwind before bedtime.

During these 5 minutes, think of happy thoughts. A vacation that you enjoyed or a good joke anything that makes you happy and content.

Take time to treat yourself to the good things in life. Visit your local day spas or take a nice vacation. Life is short and as the saying goes you cant it with you.

Designate a relaxation day, every three months. This is only four days per year out of 365 days. Use this day to get a therapeutic massage, a facial or manicure. Take your husband, mom, sister, best friend with you or get them a gift certificate so that they can also enjoy the experience. This is an especially wonderful gift, if they have a special occasion coming up such as an anniversary, graduation, new birth, mothers day or valentines day.