Recognize the Dangers of Stress and Escape

By Sandy Schroeder

Stress has become part of our vocabulary and daily lifestyle.  How many times have you heard someone say, "I'm just stressed right now"? They are probably right, but understanding exactly what stress is doing to them is more serious.

EasyHealthOptions.com points out stress can cause everything from digestion to heart problems, and can turn into chronic conditions that kill.

Japanese and German researchers have shown how unrelenting stress creates disease-causing cells causing inflammation in the central nervous system that can reach the brain and spinal cord. In the process, nerve pathways that are normally off can be turned on, creating gut issues increasing potassium in the blood which can lead to heart failure.

If your current way of life makes you feel like you are locked into a stress, it's time to push back to avoid serious stomach or heart damage. Getting a grip on your worries, anxiety and frustrations could help you live longer as you thrive.

Try These Steps to Relieve Stress

Let your breath handle everything - When you are ready to scream and simply cannot see a way out of your predicaments, step away or close the door and just sit and breathe. Close your eyes, inhale through your nose and picture the air you take in as clear and cool. Fill your chest. Then slowly exhale picturing that air as hot and dark. Keep repeating until all of the dark air is gone. Use this exercise whenever you need it.

Run away from your stress - Walk, run, dance or do whatever exercises please you most to give stress the slip. I often feel my spirits lift the moment I step outside and start walking. Choose activities that you really enjoy and share them with your family.

Slow down and regroup with meditation - Learn how to be present in the moment and slow your mind and body. Sit on the floor or in a chair with your feet on the floor. Close your eyes and repeat a short phrase such as, "Peace is coming" and let other thoughts just float on by. You can also sit in a favorite spot on your patio and watch the breeze blow the leaves as all of your thoughts stream by. Use brief meditations daily, morning and evening, to get the best effects.

Take a minute to listen to your body - Lie down on a mat and tune in to how your body feels. Start with your feet and your toes and make your way up your body checking for tightness or pain. When you find tightness let go of the tension. When you find pain, use heat, ice or massage to soothe the body.

Wherever you are with stress, be open to relief and make sure you get it. If simple techniques do not seem to be enough, see your doctor to find a therapist to help you work through the issues.

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Chicago, Ill.

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