Stress....argh!! How NOT to drive yourself crazy :-)

After a good chat with a friend about how 'blah' I've been feeling at the moment..I felt compelled to include something on the effects of stress, how to recognize it and how to keep it under wraps!

If course stresss can be sometimes useful-our species use the bodies 'fight or flight' response to react quickly to the chase if a lion or cougar 'back in the day'. Stress- if in moderate levels can make us more alert in times of exams or busy periods at work, it can also give us a bit if extra and arousal energy to compete in sports events.

The only problem with stress is, that when we express it in high doses over a long period of time, our health and as a result life around us can suffer.

Stress can cause and contribute to:

-Gastro intestinal upsets,

-Head aches,

-Reduced immune system functioning,

-Heart conditions,

-An increased cholesterol and cortisol level in your blood,

-Increase your risk of developing a mental illness,

-Effect your social & family life,

As well as obviously make you exhausted all the time! :-(

So how can we deal with stress in a healthy way? 

-Get active (release that built up tension),

-Watch your diet (Complex carbohydrates, B vitamins, Omega 3 are all essential!!),

-Take time out to laugh (laughing clubs don't exist for no reason-the release is awesome!!),

-Try meditation (if you're a but sceptic me go to a yoga or body balance class at yor local gym or download a guided meditation audio from I-tunes!...trust me..it's a savior to clear your mind-tried & tested!!),

-Catch up with friends (yes-it takes time away from completing your work deadline-but studies have shown the positive outcomes of a good giggle, 'vent' and time with a support network,

-Be assertive. Don't be afraid to say no to things if you are already 'snowed under' or just need a break. It can take practice, but delegating & reducing your load at times can be very beneficial.

-Listening to music, reading a book, strolling through the shopping arcade, having a coffee-anything that gives you a short break from the 'crazy' day you've had gives your poor old brain & body a chance to 're-group', chill out & think more clearly.

-Finally rest..make sure you're getting a minimum of 7-8hours of sleep each night. Without sleep-it is almost impossible to cope!!!

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stress-relievers/MY01373/NSECTIONGROUP=2

Stress less Gorgeous Girls Xxxx