Burnout is more than just stress - it's how your mind and your body tell you a change is needed. Whether you're a homeowners association property manager, board member or a homeowner who is part of a homeowners association, the pressure to work harder to the point of exhaustion can be a reality. Do you find yourself often working mechanically or just going through the motions? Then try these ways to relieve stress before it turns into burnout.

1.  Exercise at least three times a week

Does your homeowners association offer an exercise facility? Is it near a park? Running, walking, weight lifting, bike riding - anything that gets your heart and lungs working are great ways to relieve stress. Exercise releases endorphins that boost your mood, and it dissipates built-up stress that otherwise leads to burnout.

2.  Make time for a hobby

Find out if your homeowners association offers weekly activities to participate in. If not, then think about enrolling in an art class or cooking class, reading a good book, sewing - anything that is not part of your regular grind. It will not only help you relieve stress and balance the things that wear you down - you may even make new friends who can be great listeners when you need to relieve stress in the future.

3.  Practice breathing exercises

"Just breathe!" Yes, it's an old cliché, but there's a grain of truth behind every cliché. Deep breathing is one of the great ways to relieve stress because it gives your body a boost of oxygen and it releases tension in your abdomen around your heart. You could even take it a step further and be the one to initiate a breathing, yoga or meditation class for the members of your homeowners association.

4.  Get away

Too many of us tend to work 24/7 and don't take time for ourselves. Take a walk at lunch, and don't take work home if at all possible. Try and leave the office at the office. At home, find a time and place where you relax and unwind. Maybe this is spending time out by the pool in your homeowners association in the summer or seeing what is going on in the clubhouse in the winter. Even 15 minutes of relaxation or socializing can be great ways to relieve stress.

5.  Laugh

Sometimes it helps to look at a situation and just laugh. Pick a comedy next time you go to the movies or surf channels. Laughter is a fun way to relieve stress!

6.  Take up yoga or tai chi

These disciplines have a restorative effect and are surefire ways to relieve stress.

7.  Get enough sleep

Is your homeowners association a quiet place? The average adult today does not get the required 6-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night and wakes up tired. Do what you can to make your sleeping environment conducive to relaxing and falling asleep gently and soundly. Contact your property manager if you have noisy neighbors.

Stress leading to burnout can creep up on you slowly. Your homeowners association should be a stress-free place because it's your home. Watch for the warning signs and stay ahead of it by practicing these ways to relieve stress. Your heart, family, board and employer will thank you.