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We Know: Tips For Stress Management
What is stress?
Stress can be experienced in a number of ways by different people, but is most often described as tension resulting from external stimuli, whether physical, emotional or social. This tension produces a variety of symptoms that manifest themselves both mentally and physically.
What can stress do to the body?
Stress can be quite damaging to the body. In fact, people that are highly stressed often have higher blood pressure than those who are not. Stress is the prime factor in causing tension headaches, reduced immune system, irritability, lashing out at others, procrastination and other debilitating symptoms.
How can stress levels be maintained?
Managing stress can be difficult, but it is worth it for the quality of life experienced once they're under control.
- Make To-Do Lists: Life is busy. In order to get through the day and accomplish everything you need to, make a list of what you need done each day. Prioritize the list and then hop to it! By managing your time effectively you leave little room for procrastination and a lot less worrying about the project at hand.
- Take Breaks: If your eyes are exhausted and you feel burnt out, take a break! Sitting at the computer all day (or wherever you work) is actually harmful to your body. Take breaks throughout the day to get up, move about or just sit quietly without a care in the world.
- Exercise: Staying physically fit helps to increase energy levels and create a better mood. With a positive attitude and body that is capable, you can better take on the tasks at hand.
- Reward Yourself: Don't just rush from one project to the next. Doing so can leave you feeling stressed and unappreciated. When you complete a project to the best of your ability, reward yourself with something you enjoy. Dying to see the latest movie? Go see it! Feel like you deserve that sinful desert? Eat it! Whatever your pleasure, indulge in it every once in awhile.
How can I prevent stress in my life?
Stress is a normal part of life. In fact, stress is good, to a point. However, keeping the worries, must-do's and other stressful thoughts at bay can help you to lead a happier and healthier life. Here are a few excellent resources to help prevent
stress from overtaking your life:
- Stress Management for Dummies by Allen Elkin
- Stress Free For Good: 10 Scientifically Proven Life Skills for Health and Happiness by Frederic Luskin and Ken Pelletier
- Undoing Perpetual Stress: The Missing Connection Between Depression, Anxiety and 21st Century Illness by Richard O'Connor
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