12. Keep yourself well and energetic by eating healthy foods (especially fruits, vegetables, and whole grains), engaging in a daily exercise program, and using stress reduction procedures and affirmations to prepare for each session. Affirming personal values can buffer stress (Creswall, Welch, & Taylor, 2005). For example, write or say the following affirmation up to 20 times daily: “Perfect health is my natural state of being.” Consider leading the group in a series of physical warm-up exercises to begin each group. Not only will it reduce anxiety in you and the group members, it will also stimulate circulation and enhance thought processes (see Physical Warm-up Exercises for Groups next).