Aug 25, 2014
Stress doesn't need to be a way of life for you. All this week I want to teach you how to recognize stress as well as how to combat it. In the Unites States stress is responsible for a massive amount of illness. In fact, it can be part of every illness. Unless you find ways to work through stress you are seriously limited your lifespan and the quality of your life within the time you have.
There are several symptoms of stress that you may be able to use to identify if you are under an undue amount of pressure. They are categorized into four different headings.
SYMPTOMS OF STRESS
Cognitive
- Impaired memory
- Lack of concentration
- Poor Judgment
- Inability to see the positives
- Anxious or racing thoughts
- Constant worrying
Emotional
- Moodiness
- Short temper
- Inability to relax
- Tendency to be overwhelmed
- Sense of loneliness
- General unhappiness
Physical
- Aches/pains
- Nausea
- Rapid heart rate
- Decreased libido
- Frequent Colds
Behavioral
- Eating more or less than usual
- Too little or too much sleep
- Isolating
- Procrastination
- Increased use of alcohol, drugs or cigarettes for relaxation
- Nervous habits
ACTIONS OF THE DAY
1.) Select two times each day to conduct a self-diagnostic on your level of stress. Become aware of the signals of stress:
- Tight or sore muscles
- Clenched hands or jaw
- Upset stomach
- Rapid, shallow breaths
2.) At points throughout the day, take deep breaths through your nose, hold it briefly and exhale slowly through your mouth.
JOURNAL QUESTION OF THE DAY
Describe an event in your life that was totally relaxing and joyous. Describe it briefly.
RESOURCES
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/quick_stress_relief.htm