Instant diabetes answers: 4 proven stress busters

Diabetes can be a stressful disease, both physically and psychology. Follow these tips to tame the tension, relax and breath easier.

• Deep breathing has been shown to rapidly calm the body's physical response to stress. Done properly, three breaths will lower your heart rate and blood pressure.
• Most people breathe in a shallow way that makes the chest expand, with the diaphragm pushing upward.
• Deeper, stress-relieving breaths, however, should make the diaphragm move downward, expanding your belly. Picture a balloon under your belly button that you need to fill. As you draw air in, imagine the balloon expanding, then slowly let the air out.

• Most stress comes from worrying about the past or the future. You'll feel less stress if you can stay focused on the present—where there are a finite number of things you have to deal with emotionally.
• Start by simply acknowledging and accepting what you're feeling right now—without thinking about why it is or what to do about it. If your mind strays to the future, consciously bring it back to the moment at hand. Deep breathing can help you stay centred on the here and now.

• Before a meal, or whenever else it seems appropriate, make a point of giving thanks.
• Such habits encourage an awareness of what's good about the present moment. They help us realize that the things we take for granted (regular meals, a place to live, the luxury of a warm shower every morning) are true blessings.

• Most of us judge ourselves harshly, straining for perfection and beating ourselves up for mistakes.
• Consciously say to yourself, "I don't have to be perfect." Feeling more forgiving of yourself will not only relieve tension in the moment, it will also improve the way you treat others—which leads to better relationships and further stress reduction over the long term.