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Stress Management and Relaxation
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Some events such as deadlines,
competitions, and confrontations may produce feelings of eagerness and excitement, particularly when we think that we
have a chance of overcoming the challenge. The arousal you feel when you try to meet these challenges is considered
healthy. However, when a situation or event is perceived by a person as being overwhelming, beyond
their abilities to cope, and threatening to their well-being, it is considered “stressful”.
Stress can result in feelings of exhaustion, fatigue, and depression, which in turn can lead to health problems
such as headaches, upset stomach, rashes, insomnia, ulcers, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Stress
can also affect work performance and relationships.
Stress is related to a primitive system in our body called the “fight or flight” response. It is called this because it provides the strength
and energy to either fight or run away from danger. The changes that occur when this system is activated include an increase in heart rate and
blood pressure, faster breathing, tensing of muscles, increased mental alertness and sensitivity of sense organs, increased
blood flow to the brain, heart and muscles (the organs that are most important in dealing with danger) and less blood to the skin, digestive
tract, kidneys and liver. In addition, there is an increase in blood sugar, fats and cholesterol
and a rise in platelets and blood clotting factors. Although this system was adaptive
in the past, it is not always beneficial in today's modern society. In fact, when this system is turned on for long periods of time
it can have harmful effects on the body (e.g., decreased immune function, heart disease).
Over the years, there has been tens of thousands of research studies showing that the most effective way to combat stress
is with self-care, which includes many complimentary and alternative therapies.
For more information about products that help reduce stress and induce relaxation,
choose from the resources below.
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Thursday, August 21, 2008
