STRESS

Stress and Heart Disease

It is impossible to define and measure a person’s stress level, but studies suggest that certain people respond to stress in ways that can create health problems.

Several physiological changes take place in the body when a person is stressed, placing an extra burden on your heart. Under stress the heart beats faster, the body releases more fat into the blood stream, blood sugar concentration increases and the body secretes chemicals that accelerate the blood clotting mechanism.

Many scientists have also found a relationship between a person’s stress, their behavior habits, and heart attacks. For example, a person may overeat, smoke continually, or may develop high blood pressure in response to too much stress.

Managing Stress

Everyone has, and will continue to encounter stressful situations at various times in their lives. The most important thing, however, is how we deal with stress. Not being able to cope with stressful situations is what contributes to health problems.

Managing daily stress by applying the “3R”

1. Recover : To regain your sense of balance and routine, try a weekend get away, going to the movie, exercising, or talking with friends.

2. Refocus : Stepping back and looking at the “big picture” give greater peace of mind. Take time to think about what has happened and identify your feelings.

3. Regenerate : Chronic stress can affect your health, so get extra rest, eat right, avoid alcohol and cigarettes, and stay connected with supportive family and friends.

There are several things people use to help them get through stressful situations. However, many of those “crutches” are unhealthy and can actually aggravate stress symptoms. It is best to try to limit or eliminate these influences, especially when you’re under stress. These stress aggravators include : cigarettes, alcohol, sugar, caffeine and other drugs.

Physical and Emotional Relaxation

Relaxation is the key to effective stress management. To success fully deal with stress, you need to practice both physical and emotional relaxation techniques.

Emotional Relaxation

Techniques :

• Talk with a friend

• Laugh

• Cry

• Read

• Listen to music

Physical Relaxation

Techniques :

• Deep breathing

• Stretching

• Exercise

• Hot baths

• Proper eating

• Massage

Relaxation is a skill that you learn. It takes practice. Take time every day to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body.