Everyone experiences stress at some point in life. Stress is surprisingly difficult to define. Scientists say that stress is a force or event that impairs normal stability, balance or functioning.
Stress is really one of the ways that the body protects itself. When danger threatens, the body produces’hormones’ that prepare people for action. These hormones such as adrenaline, are released into the blood stream and pumped throughout the entire body. Adrenaline increases the tone in the muscles, preparing a person to jump into action. The heart rate raises, blood flows more rapidly through the tissues signalling rapid respiration so that ample oxygen is available to body in crisis. The speed though increases helping individuals to plan and think way out of trouble. These physical and psychological changes are helpful when people are threatened by danger, BUT NOT IF PEOPLE EXPERIENCE THEM ALL DAY, EVER DAY. It is difficult for the body to remain in state of’red alert’ all the time. If this occurs, people become tired, anxious and stressed.
TO RELIEVE STRESS TRY THE FOLLOWING:
Perform’deep breathing’ exercises.
Lie face down on the floor and begin breathing deeply and slowly, with your hands resting under the ace. Do this for five minutes.
Sit in a recline chair. Put a hand on your abdomen and a hand on your chest. As you breathe make sure that the hand on your abdomen is moving up and down rather than the one on your chest.
Try meditation. Use visulisation. Sit quietly with your eyes closed, imagining the sights, sounds and smells of your favourite place, such as a beach or mountain retreat, flowing water.
Make time for music, art or other hobbies that help relax and distract you.
6.Learn to identify and monitor situations that stress you. Do not over generalise negative reactions to things. Try to be positive and optimistic.
- Make a list of things that you need to handle every day. Try to follow the list so that you feel organised and on top of things.
Keep an eye on things that might suggest that you are not coping well. For example, are you smoking or drinking more or sleeping less?