Tips to Help your Partner Relieve Stress

5 tips to help your man manage stress
6:05 AM, Aug. 13, 2011

In a time when a dwindling economy has led to more job insecurity and crazier work schedules, men are feeling increasingly stressed to hold down a job and bring in an income, according to a recent study by the New York-based Work and Family Institute.

But helping your boyfriend or husband manage those stresses isn't difficult - from the expert advice of Cosmopolitan Magazine, you can learn a few simple tricks to help him see the brighter side of things.

STOCK UP ON SNACKS. When your man is stressed, reach for the chips and keep 'em coming. By munching on his favorite crunchy snack, he'll actually get a subtle stress release from bodily tensions, similar to squeezing a stress ball, according to Kathleen Hall, founder of The Stress Institute.

KEEP A SLIGHT DISTANCE. A clingy girlfriend is the last thing a man wants when he is stressed. However, there is a way to stay close and help alleviate tension. According to Hall, research shows that a man begins to produce oxytocin - the affectionate chemical - at high levels when he is 3 feet away from a woman. So, give him some space but stay close. When you're sitting on the couch, ensure you're just barely touching. He'll begin to feel closer to you without realizing it.

CHALLENGE HIM TO A GAME. Hall suggests Wii Tennis, but any similar activity will produce the same results: By tapping into his competitive side, he'll not only forget about work stresses but his body also will release happy-inducing chemicals, like serotonin.

MAKE IT A COCKTAIL HOUR. Although you can't jet off on a vacation every time life gets a little stressful, you can try to recreate the carefree experience by serving him a fruity cocktail that will make him think of white beaches, not work.

GET A LAUGH. Because men often react more to visual stimulus, you can help him unwind by putting something funny directly in his face. Look up a hilarious YouTube video and share it with him during the day. Even better, if you watch it together, your smile will help brighten his day.

MY THOUGHTS

A stressed partner is hard for relationships.  If we want our relationships to work, we need to be sensitive to our partners.  We should be aware of his stress levels and try to be supportive instead of causing more stress.  Honestly, I think your ability to lessen th stress depends on your partner and what relaxes him.  Some would like to talk about their problems.  Some would prefer to stay off the subject.  Others would like to sleep it off.  While for others, being active will do the trick.  If your efforts don't seem to work, don't take it personally.  That will lead to more stress for the both of you.