I think we all agree that unmanaged stress can set off a host of health problems and symptoms.
Among them are:
Tummy troubles: today the digestive system is commonly called our “second brain”. Why? There are more nerve endings in the digestive system than anywhere else except the brain.
Weight gain: stress activates cortisol, our emergency hormone. When cortisol is activated, we burn fewer calories.
Sleep problems: go to bed with worry and sleep can be elusive
Heart disease: stress thickens white blood cells and creates plaque
Physical pain: back, neck and shoulder pain is common when stressed
Common Cold: immune system cells are inflamed and can’t respond appropriately
Healing: Excess cortisol delays healing from wounds and illnesses
With all these potential effects of chronic stress, it is no wonder unmanaged stress is a serious condition and can lead to overwhelm. .
The good news is there are many ways you can manage stress so that it does not hurt you.
To begin, make a list of the things that stress you. List them all. It may be time crunch, commuting, finances, an injury, your work, your neighbors, caring for someone, or your own illness.
Take the list and identify the stressors that you can change in some way. Perhaps you’re pressed for time because you have overbooked yourself. Look at what’s essential and eliminate the things that are non-essential from the list. Learn to say no.
If it’s your work, figure out what can make it better, take steps to implement the changes, or if that is not possible, consider looking for other work that is more rewarding or in keeping with your needs.
Stress is cumulative, and when you recognize that it is building into something that is affecting your well-being, steps must be taken to reduce it or you put your health at risk. Some stressors, like care-giving or dealing with a chronic illness, may be unavoidable, but the way you approach it - your ability to ask for help, your attitude toward it, your coping skills - make a world of difference in how it affects you.
Here is a brief list of techniques that can help you day by day in managing your stress:
Breathe. Deep in your belly. This has a deeply calming effect.
Move. Moving gets your circulation going and can open insight into problems you face.
Talk. Whether it’s just letting off steam, or asking for help, talking gets troubles “off your chest”.
Eat. Eat simple whole foods. They will stabilize your blood sugar and keep you away from sugar and fat.
Meditate. Take a minute here and there through the day to step back and clear your thoughts, You can do it with a simple meditation tape or through prayer.
If you are someone who cannot quiet your thoughts, my recording Stress Management | Meditation and Affirmations may be just what you need. The meditation is less than 10 minutes long and is enough to relax and renew the mind and body. The affirmations are statements designed to actively release you from worry and anxiety.
For more tips, go to my website www.wellnessandyou.com/stress