Stress, unfortunately, has become an omnipresent part of life today in modern America. Whether it comes out of interpersonal relationships or arises on the job, stress works itself into all of our existences. No one is immune, not even the calmest and happiest among us. Everyone can use info on stress management.
Why must we effectively manage our stress? The litany of adverse health effects triggered by stress have been well documented. The culprit behind stress is the chemical adrenaline. Along with other stress related hormones, adrenaline serves to fasten your pulse and blood pressure with obvious undesirable consequences.
Why does the body do this? Adrenaline is secreted by the body in its attempt to prepare you for perceived danger. Faster heartbeat facilitates blood flow thus allowing you to run faster. Dilated pupils allow you to see better. Your body is trying to prime itself for use in an emergency. However, when present on a chronic basis, stress can have devastating effects.
There are many techniques which have proved effective for people attempting to manage their level of stress. This first is relatively simple but unthinkable to many. Give up your morning cup of coffee. Caffeine is drug which serves to intensify and prolong existing stress.
Cutting out that daily coffee, tea or caffinated soft drink may be difficult, but it represents an excellent first step in combating your stress level. Nicotine is also a drug with similar effects. Many foods have also been tied to increased levels of stress. Those with acute stress problems are strongly urged to avoid these triggers.
Another beneficial weapon against stress is daily exercise. Everyone is aware of the positive effects of a good exercise regimen. However, few are aware that it has a significant stress reduction properties. Whether it be running or a round with the punching bag, exercise allows for the release of energy and a healthy channel to release one’s frustrations.
Many have found relief from stress employing methods initially devised in the Far East. Activities such as yoga and meditation have been quantified to have substantial impact upon stress levels. Even if at first blush it does not seem like an activity you’d ordinarily do, those suffering from high stress levels owe it to themselves to explore these type techniques.
Many other common sense steps can be taken to combat stress. Getting a full night’s sleep is one such suggestion. In today’s hectic world this isn’t always possible, but sleep deprivation can be a major contributing factor to stress. Other obvious solutions include spending less time at the office and more time at home. The list of steps you can take is long as much there is much info on stress management.