Stress Management
We all experience stress. Stress can be caused by many different events such as:
- Job troubles
- Traffic
- Getting married
- Cigarettes, alcohol, or other drugs
- Having a baby
- Relationship problems
- A new job
- Financial hardships
- Arguments
- Balancing work and family
- The death of a friend or loved one
These events are called stressors. How your body reacts is stress. Each person's body responds differently. Some of us get headaches and stomachaches. Others experience anxiety, depression, irritability, sleep and appetite disturbances. When you find that stress is affecting you in an unhealthy way, it is time for a STRESS BUSTER:
Deep Breathing : breathing deeply and slowly can reverse the physiological effects of stress. Inhale slowly through your nose, allowing your lower abdomen to fill with air. Hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly through your mouth. Repeat several times.Muscular relaxation : releases the tension in your muscles. You can simply sit in a chair and focus on relaxing all the muscles in your body, beginning with your forehead and ending with your feet, progressively moving through your body. Some people find it easiest to tense the muscles first and then relax them.
Visualization: allows you to take a mental vacation. You can use our visualization script or simply get comfortable, close your eyes and imagine a peaceful place with as much detail as possible, using each of your senses to see, smell, hear, taste, feel the relaxing scene.
Exercise : counteracts the body's physiological stress response. It helps lower blood pressure and releases natural endorphins (feel-good hormones).
Setting Limits : learn to say no at least some of the time and not feel guilty. Know your personal and professional priorities.
Becoming a better listener: it really is a skill and improves with practice. See Effective Communication .
Learn to communicate assertively: let others know what you expect and want in a respectful manner. Be specific.
Laughter: watch a comedy; listen to a joke or simply have a sense or humor.
Develop positive self-talk: become aware of the tape recorder in your head and the messages that are playing. Learn to praise yourself and others.
Stress can be healthy. It can be a motivator as long as you manage it in a way that works for you.
Updated March 22, 2007 | Maintained by Debra Tipton
