Stress and Health are closely related:
Stress can make these symptoms worse if somebody is already suffering from gastrointestinal disorders. It is well known that stress, either quick or constant, can induce risky body-mind disorders. Immediate disorders such as dizzy spells, anxiety, tension, sleeplessness, nervousness and muscle cramps can all result in chronic health problems.
In the long run they may also affect our immune, cardiovascular and nervous systems. Frequent stress responses of our body increase a host of molecules potentially dangerous for the optimal health of the heart. These are low-density lipoproteins (LDL, the "bad" form of cholesterol) and other lipid types such as triglycerides. Because stress delays the processing and clearance of these fats, their accumulation puts people at risk of developing atherosclerosis (or arteriosclerosis) and other heart diseases.
Blood pressure fluctuates with age. It gradually increases, as we grow older. It is also known to vary according to the varying hours of the day. But, it has been medically proven that emotional and psychological disturbances due to acute or chronic causes of stress precipitate high blood pressure in human beings, worsen many immune related medical conditions, including diabetes. Cortisol produced during stress situations may suppress the body's immune response, increasing susceptibility to infectious diseases.
Coping with Stress:
Methods of coping with stress are a plenty. The most significant or sensible way out is a change in lifestyle. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, physical exercises, listening to soothing music, deep breathing, various natural and alternative methods, personal growth techniques, visualization and massage are some of the most effective of the known non-invasive stress busters.
TIPS TO DEAL WITH STRESS:
- Don't be shocked or offended when someone decides to criticize you. While it may feel like they are trying to hurt you, they may actually be speaking with good intentions.
- Don't take criticism personally. When someone criticizes you or is angry with you, try to focus on what you did or didn't do and ignore any generalizations or personality attacks that also come along. People can sometimes be vicious and insensitive when they are angry. If you put their viciousness aside, you can still benefit greatly from the feedback they are providing you.
3. If you don't understand the legitimacy of the other person's anger or criticism, ask them to help you better understand their point of view. As long as you are interested in what you can learn from other people's negative comments (instead of arguing against them), they will usually be willing to explain things in greater detail.
Some DOS and DONTS:
- Pray.
- Leave your troubles to God and enter God's country.
- Know there are correct mistakes, positive disintegrations and happy depressions.
- Know that something good will come out of this.
- Imagine the worst thing that could happen and keep it up until it is absurd and leads to laughter.
- If everything you worry about happens, start worrying about being healthy and free of anxiety and stress.
- Always take time for yourself, at least 30 minutes per day.
- Be aware of your own stress meter: Know when to step back and cool down.
- Concentrate on controlling your own situation, without controlling everybody else.
- Daily exercise will burn off the stress chemicals.
- Eat lots of fresh fruit, veggies, bread and water, give your body the best for it to perform at its best.
- Forgive others, don't hold grudges and be tolerant - not everyone is as capable as you.
- Gain perspective on things, how important is the issue?
- Hugs, kisses and laughter: Have fun and don't be afraid to share your feelings with others.
- Identify stressors and plan to deal with them better next time.
- Judge your own performance realistically; don't set goals out of your own reach.
- Keep a positive attitude, your outlook will influence outcomes and the way others treat you.
- Limit alcohol, drugs and other stimulants, they affect your perception and behaviour.
- Manage money well, seek advice and save at least 10 per cent of what you earn.
- No is a word you need to learn to use without feeling guilty.
- Outdoor activities by yourself, or with friends and family, can be a great way to relax.
- Play your favorite music rather than watching television.
- Quit smoking: It is stressing your body daily, not to mention killing you too.
- Relationships: Nurture and enjoy them, learn to listen more and talk less.
- Sleep well, with a firm mattress and a supportive pillow; don't overheat yourself and allow plenty of ventilation.
- Treat yourself once a week with a massage, dinner out, the movies: Moderation is the key.
- Understand things from the other person's point of view.
- Verify information from the source before exploding.
- Worry less, it really does not get things completed better or quicker.
- Xpress: Make a regular retreat to your favorite space, make holidays part of your yearly plan and budget.
- Yearly goal setting: Plan what you want to achieve based on your priorities in your career, relationships, etc.
- Zest for life: Each day is a gift, smile and be thankful that you are a part of the bigger picture
Written by:
Pallavi Sinha.(Dietician) Ask her your health related questions at pallavi[at]hungrybangalore[dot]com.
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