Stress Management
Stress today is inevitable syndrome in our lives. The word `stress` is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as "a state of affair involving demand on physical or mental energy"... A condition or circumstance (not always adverse), which can disturb the normal physiological and psychological functioning of an individual. It is a sad state today that many do not realise that they are under stress and lead lives without under-going any stress relieving exercise leading to many ailments. It is always better to be early than never or late.
In medical parlance `stress` is defined as a perturbation of the body`s homeostasis. This demand on mind-body occurs when it tries to cope with incessant changes in life. A `stress` condition seems `relative` in nature. Extreme stress conditions, psychologists say, are detrimental to human health but in moderation stress is normal and, in many cases, proves useful. Stress, nevertheless, is synonymous with negative conditions. Today, with the rapid diversification of human activity, we come face to face with numerous causes of stress and the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Stress does not spare anyone; be it men, women, teenagers or even infants. For professionals it could be achieving targets at work, for women it could mean work-home balance, for teenagers it could mean coping up to perform better in competitive environment, for children it could mean not getting what they want and for infants it could be not being able to be with the mother all the time. Similar kind of stress acts differently to different people and at different times.
Quick tips to relieve stress:
. Breathe well. Go for short leisurely walk
. Take a shower & massage your self
. Stretch yourself
. Eat good food (avoid junk)
. Drink water and juices (avoid sugary colas or drinks)
. Listen to some soft music .Talk to someone whom you have not spoken for long time
. Meditate
. Talk to your partner
. Make love
. Have a sound sleep.
. Develop a hobby
. Set realistic goals
. Get organised
. Involve in social responsibilities
In spite of your self-effort to reduce stress, if you do not achieve results, do not hesitate to speak to a psychotherapist; who could direct you various ways in relieving your stress.
You will feel the effects of restlessness and improper sleep due to stress. Change in dietary habits is quite helpful in dealing with stress. Eat a well balanced diet which includes whole grains, vegetables, fruit, milk and milk products. You will have proper supply of nutrients through a well balanced diet. It will help your body to cope up with the overload.
Alcohol and caffeine uses up nutrients from body and tighten the blood vessels which can cause headache. So avoid alcohol, smoking and caffeine to get rid of stress. Use Siberian ginseng instead of caffeine. It fights mental fatigue, depression and anxiety. It toughens the nervous system and increases energy. It reduces irritability and known to be very useful in relieving stress. You can also use lemon balm tea because it reduces mood swings and anxiety. This herb has calming effect which relieves restlessness. Both of these herbs are easily available at leading health food stores.
Stress cause headache and body ache. Massage is a great stress reliever. It fights physical symptoms of stress. Massage relaxes the muscles and improves blood circulation. It is good for emotional health as well. Get a good body or head massage to relieve stress. Massage your head with sandalwood or coconut oil for better results.
Exercise relieves stress. Do regular exercise for 20- 30 minutes daily to remain fit and healthy. It helps in relaxing body and decreasing anxiety. You can do running, biking, walking, swimming, weight lifting or yoga. Yoga is known to be the oldest and finest way to reduce stress. You can be healthier and creative by doing yoga.
8) Reflexology relaxes the body and reduces stress. It involves locating points on hand and feet and pressing them to relieve stress.