Almost everyone knows what it’s like to feel stressed. Life is so fast-paced and there are so many responsibilities, that it’s become a fact of life. While a moderate level of stress is thought to be good for you, too much can have a very detrimental effect. People are feeling stress more than ever before, so it’s vital you find ways to counteract it.
What Happens When You’re Stressed?
Stress is a natural response that’s activated in the brain. During periods of pressure, levels of chemicals such as dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine rise. Other “fight-or-flight” hormones such as adrenaline are also released in large quantities. The release of these chemicals and hormones increases your heart rate and blood pressure and weakens your immune system. If stress is allowed to continue unmanaged over some time it can lead to conditions such as heart disease, stomach ulcers, asthma, and strokes.
The Benefits of Managing Stress
Learning how to manage stress in the right way is important because it reduces that risk of illness. You’ll also find your moods getting much lighter, you’ll feel more balanced, your thoughts will be clearer, and your relationships will be improved.
There will be a reduced risk of anxiety, depression, type 2 diabetes, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). The likelihood of drug or alcohol abuse, binge or comfort eating is also going to be reduced.
It’s also thought that stress can contribute to heart disease, although indirectly. Therefore, reducing stress in your life is going to reduce the risk of this too.
Is Stress a Problem for You?
There are warning signs to watch out for that indicate the stress in your life is becoming a problem. One of these is the feeling of being overwhelmed, and you’re struggling to cope. Other symptoms include headaches, disturbed sleep, fatigue, heart palpitations, upset stomach, changed appetite, neck, shoulder, and backache.
Techniques for Managing Your Stress
People manage stress in many different ways. The trick is to find a way that suits you. Here are some suggestions.
• Regular exercise – eases muscle tension, boosts energy levels and improves stamina.
• Healthy lifestyle – this includes eating a balanced diet and reducing your alcohol intake.
• Plan ahead – knowing what’s coming up allows you to find ways to relieve the pressure.
• Be open to change – the best way to reduce stress is to change something in your life.
• Learn to say no – over committing is a common reason for stress.
• Think flexibly – focus on the things you can change rather than those you can’t
• Natural remedies – CBD oil is being used by an increasing number of people who are suffering with chronic stress. You can purchase CBD wholesale online. A number of other herbal remedies such as lavender, chamomile, valerian and lemon balm are also used to relieve stress.
• Relaxation techniques – there are many different ways to relax. For some, it is a simple case of finding somewhere quiet and reading a book. Meditation and progressive muscle relaxation are also popular techniques.
Learning how to manage your stress is important for your health and wellbeing. Any time you spend relaxing and learning new stress management skills is well-spent because it brings emotional and physical health benefits.
