Reducing Stress for a Happier, Healthier Life
Anxiety Creates Unnecessary Distress and can be Harmful to Health
Jun 13, 2009
According to the Mayo Clinic, “Stress is a normal psychological and physical reaction to the demands of life.” Everyone deals with stress in some way, but some cope better than others. For those who don't deal with stress well, the negative effects can be harmful.
While a great deal of stress can lead to the obvious emotional and behavioral problems, there can also be serious physical side effects. These can include a loss of sleep, body tension, gastrointestinal problems, headaches, and fatigue, but it can also lead to an increase in unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol, drug, and cigarette usage. Fortunately, there are some simple activities to help reduce the effects of stress and its harmful side effects.
Practice Meditation Everyday
Sitting comfortably away from noise and distractions, close the eyes and clear the mind. Focus on a peaceful thought or a tranquil setting. Concentrate on a wonderful event or day and relive it in the mind's eye. Or just listen to the soft breathing. After 5 to 10 minutes, the body and mind will feel refreshed.
Practice progressive relaxation by sitting in a comfortable chair or lying down with the arms at the sides and close the eyes. One by one, tense up and relax each muscle area in the body, beginning with the head and working down to the toes. As one progresses, try isolating individual muscles.
Schedule at least 30 minutes daily for relaxation and listen to soft music, read, think, or simply dream. These can be done even while sitting in your office chair at work.
Breathing Exercises
Breathe deeply for a few minutes several times a day or whenever tension begins. Clasp the hands over the abdomen and inhale slowly and deeply through the nose, extending the abdomen as far out as it will go. Hold the breath for several seconds then exhale slowly through the mouth.
Massage
Massage therapy has long been known as an effective stress reliever which also increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles of the body. Ask a friend or loved one to massage your neck, back, shoulders, face, and scalp.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy studies indicate that several pleasant smells help a person to relax and reduce anxiety. Jasmine, lavender, and rosemary are all effective at relieving depression and anxiety. Try aromatherapy candles and scented bath oils for pleasant, refreshing stress relief.
Aerobic exercise
Exercise and physical activity go a long way in reducing stress. Loosen up tense muscles by doing stretching exercises. Try something as simple as walking or riding a bike for 20 to 30 minutes a few days a week. In addition to relieving the effects of stress, there will be a positive change to the way a person looks and feels.
Don't let stress complicate everyday life, or worse, cause harmful health problems. By following these simple steps to stress relief, anxiety can be managed safely and effectively.
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