Why do studies show that women (women in business and stay-at-home moms) have greater stress than men? Why is stress killing us? And, I really mean killing us!

More importantly, what can women do to prevent stress from making them ill, or at least, lessen its damaging effect on our bodies and immune system?

The answers begin with acknowledging that stress is one of the leading causes of illness in the United States, and women, by nature, are more susceptible than men and less likely to find positive outlets from it.

The interesting fact is that stress means different things to different people. Why certain factors create stress in one person and not another is a matter of perception. Women in business are newer to the business world and too often don't delegate other responsibilities. They feel compelled to succeed at both, causing the added stress compared. What one person views as a threat is what another person sees as an exciting challenge. Our belief system and what we have been exposed to has an overwhelming affect on what we see as a theat to our wellbeing. An example of this is the constant guilt women hold on to regarding not being able to be in two places at the same time. No human being can be sitting on the sidelines of every child's school sport's game while at the same time leading by example in the office. And, before you think I am being sexist here - I said no human being, that means male or female. The added stress for women is that too often they are seen as needing to be the role models for the other women in their office. This concept is not as required for men.

You've been living under a rock if this woman is not familiar to you. She is Marissa Mayer, CEO, Yahoo, No. 3 on the Forbes' List of 40 Under 40. Ms. Mayer created a firestorm when she announced that she intended to  to return to work so soon after her delivery which  invited commentary and criticism from women and men who wonder if she's setting an unhealthy precedent for working mothers. Her decision for what work/life balance means for her, in many instances only compounded the stress other women have been feeling. With the birth of her baby boy at the end of September, the eyes of the media (and of course that includes working Moms and Dads) are watching and waiting for her return.

How silly we are to look at this beautiful young woman and believe that she doesn't feel stress. To think for even a minute that because she is young, a person of means and, will obviously have plenty of suppor,t that she doesn't experience stress and apprehension.

Stress is a part of life, a normal response to emotional, intellectual, or physical demands. It can be positive or negative. It all depends on how we choose to deal with it. I could go on and on regarding our body's built-in stress response, also known as the "flight or fight response" which alerts us of danger. Unfortunately, getting caught in traffic and missing your child's school play or being late for that all important meeting does not rise to the danger of running from wild animals - but, believe it or not, your body doesn't know the difference.

So, how do you take control of your stress and safegurd your health and wellbeing:

• A positive attitude.
• Accept the things you cannot change and have no control over.
• Don't hold in your feelings. State your opinions rather than become angry or passive.
• Take deep meditative breaths regularly throughout the day
• Exercise regularly. Even a walk around the block will change your life.
• Eat healthy, well-balanced meals, at least 3 times per day.
• Invest in time management tools and learn to honor your time.
• Learn to say NO. Practice saying NO in the shower if necessary.
• Sleep - your body requires time to regenerate and energize.
• Cut out or dramatically cut back on all stimulants: alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, caffeine and sodas they overtax your body and liver.
• Give of yourself to others. Sharing your love with others will strengthen your body, mind and spirit.
• Love yourself. Give yourself a break. You are human and will never be perfect.

Finally, know that the greatest gift you can give to the world is to live each day as if it were your last. Stress will control you, but love will set you free.