WHAT IS
STRESS?
Stress is the emotional and physical strain caused by our response to
pressure from the outside world. Common stress reactions include
-
tension
-
irritability
-
inability to concentrate
-
fatigue
-
headaches
-
raised blood pressure
It's almost impossible to live without some stress and most of us
wouldn't want to, because it gives life some excitement and helps us
rise to the challenge. It's when stress gets out of control that
it may harm your health, your relationships and your enjoyment of life.
A few tips to help you get your stress
under control.
-
Take a few deep
breaths, it helps to lower your heart rate.
-
Take a walk; in your lunch break or at the weekend with family or
friends.
-
Share a cuppa
and your worries with a friend.
-
Listen to whatever music makes you feel good.
-
Exercise; however little you can manage, it all helps. 30 minutes of
moderate exercise a day is recommended and doesn't have to mean you need
to join a gym. Your 30 minutes can be broken down in to short 5 or 10
minute slots; any exercise that makes you feel warm and a little out of
breath is adequate. A brisk walk at lunch or on the school run, even in
the evening with the family or take a friend, it will all help to
protect your heart and release those feel good endorphins which will
help fight off pain and depression.
-
Watch a fun DVD, if you haven't got one, borrow one.
-
Laugh out loud, sing or dance, whatever takes your fancy.
-
Take a look at your diet and try to eat something nutritious every
day, even a banana or a carrot, it all adds up to your 5-a-day!
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Drink plenty of fluids and try to cut down on caffeine.
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Get adequate sleep or take a 5 minute power nap at lunchtime.
-
Eat away from your computer or desk, you'll feel much better for the
short break.
More
than anything else, enjoy your life! |
