Relaxation Techniques to Lower Stress
Stress is your body’s natural defense mechanism. This can be good in emergencies, such as getting out
of the way of a speeding car. But stress can cause physical symptoms, and even cause or worsen health
problems, if not managed correctly when responding to life’s daily challenges and changes. And no one
likes to feel anxious, afraid, worried and uptight from out-of-control stress.
What changes may cause stress? Any type of change can make you feel stressed, even good change. It’s
not just the change or event itself, but also how you react to it that affects your stress level. For example,
one person may not feel stressed by retiring from work while another may feel stressed.
Common stress triggers include being laid off from your job, a child leaving or returning home, death of a
spouse, divorce or marriage, illness or injury, a job promotion, financial problems, moving, or having a
baby.
Stress for success
The first step in dealing with stress is learning to recognize it. Early warning signs of stress include tension
in your shoulders and neck, or clenching your hands into fists.
Next, choose a way to deal with your stress. One way is to avoid the situation that leads to your stress.
This may not be possible, but you can change how you react to stress. Here are some tips that can help:
Don’t worry about things you can’t control
Prepare for events that you know may be stressful, like a job interview
Try to view change positively rather than as a threat
Work to resolve conflicts with other people
Seek help from family, friends or professionals if needed
Set realistic goals at home and at work
Exercise regularly
Eat well-balanced meals and get enough sleep
Meditate by practicing relaxation training, stretching or deep breathing
Escape from daily stresses with group sports, social events and hobbies
If you’re experiencing stress symptoms, talk to your family doctor to rule out any other health problems
that may be causing them. Your doctor can also give you more good advice on keeping your stress under
control.
Source: American Academy of Family Physicians