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Not long ago, not much was ever heard about stress, even though we all knew somebody that we felt was afflicted by it. Still, we knew what it meant, but life went on, and so did we. Those were probably less stress-filled days than today, but we are no longer living in that era.
Today we find that each day brings us a fresh load of stress. For many, the daily effects can slowly accumulate - unless something definite is done, some action is taken. Stress has more far-reaching effects than many of us realize. You know its there - it can be felt, but what to do about it is a different matter, and many don't have a clue. So life continues, with great stress, as normal, for all too many. This brief article will tell you about some of the dangers of this way of thinking, and give some real ideas as to what you can do about it.
Some Stress Is Normal
Each of our bodies is equipped with a natural stress mechanism, often referred to as a fight or flight syndrome. When confronted in an extreme situation, our body gives us a shot of adrenaline, which allows us to react accordingly with a brief enhancement of strength, energy, endurance, etc., for whichever of the two (fight or flight) may be necessary.
Another kind of more normal stress is felt when we are late, or, facing an exam, or, a deadline, for which we are a little unprepared. It goes without saying that this kind of stress would not be as severe as the survival instinct, but some of the same hormones are working - just not to the same degree. It does not hype us up nearly as much, but it does enable us to get focused, pay attention, and get the job done.
Continued Stress Is Harmful
Having stress put on us every day is normal. It is when it becomes routine to us, and we take insufficient steps (or none) to correct or counteract it, that it begins to take a toll on our minds and bodies. Currently, our stress and that of others around us is enough of a concern, that reports tell us that 43% of adults are suffering from some kind of stress induced illness. This statistic alone makes it worth raising a little fuss about stress.
Here are a few effects (out of many more ) that stress puts on us daily, and you may recognize yourself as having one or more of them:
The physical symptoms include:
· high blood pressure
· headaches
· upset stomach
· insomnia
· pain in muscles and joints
The mental symptoms include:
· confusion
· depression
· anxiety
· irritability
· tension
As people become aware of stress, they often will try to deal with it in a number of ways. While this is normal, since most of us would rather feel more restful than troubled, or tense, many will turn to alcohol, drugs, or tobacco to find relief. Instead of actually finding the desired effect, it only aggravates the situation (though some of the effects may tend to hide or mask them). Anyway, the stressed condition remains, and it continues to do its long-range harm.
Once, again, stress is so prevalent that some say that as many as 75-90% of all doctors' visits are the result of stress-created problems. Worse yet, the major causes of death are linked to stress. This includes things like heart disease, cancer, accidents, and suicide.
Dealing With Stress Is Necessary
There is a multitude of things that most people can do to start to put improper stress back in its place. While life, in general, puts stressful demands on us, we can make conscious and deliberate efforts to reduce it, and its effects. Here are just a few things that will help - start with one or two of them today.
1. Establish a regular exercise program - for 20 to 30 minutes a day. The very act of exercise will help you mind and body to relax. Take a walk, jog, aerobics, basketball, etc. - but don't overdo it the first couple of days.
2. Eat right and take vitamins - give your body the nutrients it needs to give you the strength and energy to fight off the symptoms of stress.
3. Get a good night's sleep - nature's intended relaxer - most of us do not get enough. Seems like our bodies are getting the short end of the stick here. When our priorities are wrong, we take it out on our own bodies - is this wise?
4. Enjoy a hobby - many possibilities here, such as, gardening, a pet, play an instrument (calm music is very relaxing to most), paint, do something with your children or with a friend, basically, find something you enjoy.
5. Take some time for fun and laughter - schedule some time off, and go on special outings occasionally to get away from it all.
6. Stop being a perfectionist. This could be source of much stress, both for yourself - and for others.
Stress is not something we can deal with some other day. Make today the beginning of a more relaxed life - one in which you have time to enjoy friends, and smell the roses.
Copyright 2006 by Yourwriter - This article may not be reproduced in any form without permission from the author.
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