There have been many studies that prove how stress can take its toll on both physical and mental health. In fact, stress has been linked to high blood pressure by numerous studies. In 1998, scientists at the University of California at Irvine reported in the Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine that men with highly stressful jobs had systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings that were approximately 10 points higher than those with less stressful jobs.

It doesn't take an expert to realize that it helps to simplify one's life to reduce stress. Consider the prevalence of technological resources and gadgets that we now use. These were not even commonplace several years back. Along with the convenience and efficiency these advancements in technology offer, is the increase in stress levels brought about by our fast-paced lifestyle.

Simplifying life doesn't mean you have to forego all the benefits of technology such as cell phones, pagers, emails, instant messaging, voice mails, call forwarding, and so on and so forth. All you need is to establish clear boundaries:

• If you don't want to be interrupted, or when you shouldn't be, turn off your cell phone
• Don't take a cell phone to an appointment or when you are focusing on someone else.
• Don't give out your cell phone number. Use it only for outgoing calls.
• Screen calls by using caller ID.
• Use the 'œdelete' option -- early and often.
• Arrange for calls from the office only in cases of emergency.
• Make sure you keep your commitment to observe work-free vacations.
• Let voice mail or the answering machine take your calls.
• On your voice mail greeting, be clear about when you will and will not be available.

There is such a thing as information overload. Do not expose yourself to too much stimuli, such as TV and the rest of the aforementioned gadgets and technological resources, for they can be a source of stress. When stressed out, learn to decompress by making a list of your priorities and activities. Be sure to do away with activities that are not really important or necessary. Whether at home or at the office, learn to delegate task and ask for help.

Simplifying life goes beyond getting rid of "œstuffs" It may also mean getting rid of people, especially those who are negative and toxic people. Rather, try to nurture those who support you.

Simplifying your life is not about deprivation but learning to be content with having "œjust enough" to make life worth living. articlepros