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Stress can be said
to be our physical or emotional reactions to outside stimuli that is beyond what is
normally experienced by us.
What to look for
Physical symptoms may
include
headache,
fatigue,
insomnia, digestive changes, neck or backache, loss of appetite, or overeating,
increased use of tobacco or
alcohol, tics or twitches.
Psychological symptoms
may include tension or
anxiety, anger, being
reclusive, pessimism,
lack of concentration, resentment, increased irritability, feelings of cynicism,
performance problems.
We need to have a certain
level of stress in our lives, as it inspires us to move ahead, to accomplish tasks and it
motivates us to action. However, when there is more stress in our lives that we are able
to cope with, the negative symptoms of stress may become apparent.
When we feel intense stress
or fear, a hormone called adrenalin secretes from the adrenal glands above the kidneys.
This hormone gets us ready to take action against the ‘enemy’. Our heart beats
faster, our
blood pressure rises, and our muscles will
tense up.
Different people have
different levels of stress that they can cope with. The stress may not even be apparent to
us.
If we allow the stress to
continue, it can eventually cause numerous problems within our body such as ulcers, fatigue, skin diseases and it puts stress on our immune system.
Causes
When life throws more
things at us than we are able to cope with at a certain time, we are under stress. It
could be related to our occupation, family life, a loss of someone close, money problems,
conflict or even positive events. Other causes are internal: illness, loneliness, pain, or
emotional conflict. The different stresses in our life accumulate and we reach a point
when we show the effects of not coping with it.
You should be able to
identify the triggers of stress in your life so as to teach yourself to be prepared and to
learn how to best handle it.
Traditional Treatment
Often talking your problems
over with someone helps you to see things from a different slant. This can be helpful in
finding a solution which you did not think of before.
Otherwise, your doctor may
be able to prescribe certain forms of medication for you. Remember, some are addictive and
you should beware.
Your doctor may suggest a
counsellor to pinpoint events or conditions that are stressful to you, and to devise ways
of reducing the stress they cause.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Any therapy that promotes
relaxation and clarity are helpful with this condition.
Aromatherapy -
Essential
oil of
lavender, sandalwood, and tangerine can help reduce stress: Try 5 drops of
each in a bath. Essential
oil of
lavender, sandalwood, and tangerine can help reduce stress: Try 5 drops of
each in a bath.
Massage -
This helps relax your whole body and mind. Use the following essential oils -
lavender, sandalwood, tangerine,
bergamot,
cedarwood, clary sage, Frankincense or grapefruit.This helps relax your whole body and mind. Use the following essential oils -
lavender, sandalwood, tangerine,
bergamot,
cedarwood, clary sage, Frankincense or grapefruit.
See Our Aromatherapy Section for a
complete listing and information on oils
Herbal
Therapies - A traditional response to stress is to drink a cup of hot
tea. Some herbalists suggest
chamomile, passionflower,
valerian,
or
ginseng tea. A traditional response to stress is to drink a cup of hot
tea. Some herbalists suggest
chamomile, passionflower,
valerian,
or
ginseng tea.
Lifestyle -
If you feel stressed, try exercising to use up the hormones released.
Dietary
Considerations
Eat more fresh fruit and
vegetables, and filtered water. Less caffeine drinks such as coffee and tea. Plenty of
sleep and exercise.
Personal Care
Exercise
Breathe deeply and fully.
Try
yoga to learn to relax and refocus.
Meditation creates
relaxation.
Prevention
Get an
enjoyable hobby or interest.
Get
plenty of exercise that you enjoy, and rest.
Watch a
funny movie, listen when people tell funny jokes.
Count to 10 and take a
deep breath before reacting to a potentially stressful event. This old wives tale can
actually help you keep your calm.
When to seek further
professional advice
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