What practice is recommended to manage stress effectively?

Getting enough sleep is crucial for effectively managing stress. Sleep plays a fundamental role in maintaining both mental and physical health. When individuals are well-rested, they are better equipped to handle the demands and pressures of daily life, making it easier to cope with stressors. Quality sleep helps to regulate mood, improve cognitive function, and enhance emotional resilience, which can substantially reduce stress levels.

In contrast, procrastination, ignoring physical health, and avoiding exercise are practices that can exacerbate stress. Procrastination often leads to a backlog of tasks and increased anxiety, while ignoring physical health can weaken the body's ability to handle stress physically and emotionally. Similarly, avoiding exercise deprives the body of an essential outlet for stress relief, as physical activity is known to release endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of stress. Hence, prioritizing sleep is a foundational strategy for effective stress management.