Stress is the body's physical, mental, and emotional response to external conditions, or stressors, such as; excitement, surprises, anger, or endangers, that call on us to respond. Also referred to as "fight or flight" response. This natural response involves almost every organ and body function.
Stress produces changes in your body chemistry. In a stressful situation your brain responds by sending out chemical signals which prompt the adrenal glands to immediately secrete hormones.
These hormones then set off a chain of responses within the body, such as:
- heart rate goes up and blood pressure rises
- blood is re-routed from the intestines to the muscles to promote getting away from danger.
- insulin production rises to enable the body to quickly metabolize extra energy
All these responses are designed to get away from danger. In short term, stress is not harmful. Short bouts of stress disrupt the body and can cause common physical symptoms that disappear when the source of stress ends. But, prolonged stress keeps the body in a state of "overdrive" and can have unpleasant effects on your physical health. If action is not taken to relieve stress, it can seriously damage your health.
Currently life is presenting us with constant stressful situations, with little scope for immediate release through action. Unless you learn to discharge the stress and RELAX, you will begin to show signs of chronic tension. Perhaps by drinking or smoking excessively. If you do not heed the warning signs, serious illness can occur. (Stress related symptoms usually can be differentiated from organic illnesses based on a physical examination.)
The 9 most common symptoms of stress
1 - depressionor anxiety
2 - headaches
3 - insomnia
4 - stomach upset
5 - skin rashes
6 - sexual dysfunction
7 - feelings of nervousness
8 - rapid heartbeat
9 - diarrhea or constipation
Remedies For Stress 1. Find outlets for reducing your stress, such as regular exercise, recreational activities, and hobbies. (A brisk walk, swimming, listening to music, anything to take your mind off what is stressing you.)
2. Develop an acquaintance with someone with whom you can discuss both the good and the bad.
3. Learn how to relax or use relaxation techniques, such as; meditation, yoga, or self-hypnosis.
4. Herbal supplements for natural healing that calms and relaxes the nervous system. (I have used passion flower and skullcap with great success.)
5. Avoid the use of alcohol, and/or prescription tranquilizers or sleeping pills to deal with stressful situations.
Do you have a remedy for stress? Do tell.
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