by Patricia Venables

Created on: January 25, 2007   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Stress is now definitely considered to be one of the diseases of modern living. The faster pace of life, financial problems, lack of job security and the build up of tensions in world affairs, can all contribute to a heightened sense of stress in some individuals. It may just be short term stress, like being caught in a traffic jam, or you may simply have too much to do. Or it may be long term like having difficulties in a relationship, or having to face daily problems at work.

Long term stress is obviously the most difficult to deal with, and is the most destructive.
Stress weakens the immune system ,and over time, wears down the body and the mind.

Mankind has evolved so much over the centuries that we now bear hardly any resemblance to our prehistoric ancestors. However, we still have one thing in common, the body's reaction to stress, the so-called "fight or run" response. When primitive man encountered stress, it was usually something dangerous. His body would start to manufacture the chemicals and hormones needed to either stay and fight or to run away. His heart would speed up, blood pressure would increase, and his whole body would be poised for physical action. This physical action would in turn release the stress. Unfortunately for us, the human mind and body are still programmed to see any stress as a physical threat, but we cannot release it in the same way as our primitive ancestor. We could attack the boss if he is the one causing our stress, but this is not to be recommended in to-day's society!
Without an adequate release system, the increased heart rate begins to put pressure on the heart, the tensed muscles can cause pain, like backache or migraine, and autoimmune disorders and allergies can be triggered, as the body struggles to cope. This is when stress can become toxic.
It is therefore essential that we find some techniques for minimising the threat posed by stress to our health and well being.

So where do you start? Here are 4 top tips for learning to deal with stress.

1) First of all, sit down and make a plan of you life. Identify your stress trigger points, and try to find a way to deal with them positively. For example, if there is a particular necessary daily activity that you dislike, don't do the natural thing and keep putting it off!
Complete it as early in the day as possible. Trust me, this is an unbeatable stress-buster!
Plan your day as far as possible. You will find that you achieve much more if you plan ahead.

2) Eat a balanced diet. This really is vital. Your body is better able to deal with stress if it is well nourished and not lacking in important vitamins and minerals. When it comes to coping with stress, concentrate on the B vitamins, found in cereals, milk, meat, eggs, dried fruit and bananas. Try to cut down on caffeine, which can stimulate the adrenal glands to produce stress hormones.

3) Exercise, exercise, exercise! Absolutely essential in the battle against stress. Find an activity that you enjoy, running, swimming, or playing tennis. Some people swear by a hard work-out in the gym, but even a ten minute walk in the fresh air, can help the body
burn off excess adrenaline, and fight the effects of stress.
Practise yoga. Studies have shown that yoga not only helps reduce blood pressure and tension, but is also an excellent relaxation exercise.

4) Say NO .You must learn to say no to yet another task when you are already overloaded. Many people find this incredibly difficult, both in a work environment and with family and friends. Know your limitations and stick to them.

Learn the skills to help you relax and deal with everyday stress, and you will be on your way to a healthier and more fulfilling life

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