 |
How many times have you uttered these words to your friends/co-workers /therapist/spouse/lover — or even the guy who sells you the morning coffee
“I am so stressed out!”
When you really hone in on just what stress is, you can put a face on it and work through it.
Encarta’s Dictionary Definition of Stress:
“Strain felt by somebody…Mental, emotional, or physical strain caused, for example, by anxiety or overwork. It may cause such symptoms as raised blood pressure or depression.”
Perhaps Encarta should have elaborated – we get stressed out when the body/mind is out of balance. We are either doing too much or simply not listening to our own bodies’ needs and requirements.
The unfortunate reality of stress is that it can take a hold of you and snowball into a serious problem quickly unless you wise up and take action.
Here are a few things that you can do to take charge of your life and stop stress from infringing on your sense of peace and well being.
Take a walk: in Dr. Andrew Weil’s bestselling book “Eight Weeks to Optimum Health” he lists walking as one of the best ways to improve brain function, lower blood pressure and reduce stress. Weil states that it is the opposite hand/opposite foot motion that actually calm the entire nervous system and literally help you to reach a state of tranquility. He goes on to say that when walking is combined with nature it is as near to Zen perfection as you can get. So get out there and start walking!
If you boss ticks you off leave your desk and instead of grabbing a cigarette or a coffee walk around the block, substitute lunch at your desk for a bag lunch in the park. Walk to work or to meet friends-- you are almost guaranteed to show up feeling refreshed and stress free. Bottom line, get walking!
