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Stress is a word and
a feeling with which we are all too familiar. Stress finds us at
work, at home and even with our family and friends. Sometimes stress
takes its toll on us in the form of a cold, a headache, muscle cramps
or irritability. Warning signs can include increased heart rate,
consistent insomnia, lack of concentration, feeling helplessness,
excess weight gain or loss and even thoughts of suicide. More importantly
stress can exasperate or lead to more serious conditions.
While healing sessions
help in resolving medical conditions, maintaining a healthy lifestyle
plays a significant role in the healing process. The following techniques
are some of the most effective ways in which a person can reduce
stress in his/her life.
Diet
An increased intake
of fruits and vegetables is recommended, with a minimized amount
of fats and meat. Try to reduce smoking and alcohol intake. Do not
skip meals so that your blood sugar levels will stay more constant.
Be mindful of the times of day when certain foods are eaten. Protein-rich
lunches elevate dopamine and norepinephrine levels. This will make
you feel mentally alert, while carbohydrates increase serotonin
levels and have a tranquilizing effect. For example, eating carbohydrates
in the evening will set the stage for soothing sleep and relaxation.
As always, check with your doctor before making any major changes
in your diet.
Exercise
Ten minutes a
day of exercise will not only reduce stress, but also increase confidence
and optimism. Try some aerobic exercise, like walking, biking or
swimming. In addition to being good for your body, exercise improves
the circulation to the brain, which has a positive effect on our
ability to concentrate. As always, check with your doctor before
making any significant changes in your exercise routine. Yoga is
a great form of exercise for both your body and your mind. It will
help to relieve tension by stretching your limbs, in addition to
keeping your body supple and responsive. It also develops the ability
to sit quietly while providing a sense of liveliness and comfort.
Meditation
The daily practice
of meditation helps us to release and allows the body to relax when
threatened by stress. It puts one's fears and disappointments into
perspective and allows us to experience power and peace. Meditation
slows us down and liberates us from the endless rush of modern life.
Creativity
Being creative
can assist with stress reduction, in addition to being an integral
part of the spiritual journey. Many people have sacrificed their
creativity in order to protect themselves from the expectations
and judgments of others. There are a number of religious groups
and recreation centers that provide support for reconnecting with
your creative side by offering classes on poetry, painting or photography.
Music
Music allows you
to be in a receptive, creative and relaxed state of mind. It enables
you to achieve a more peaceful, loving and harmonious lifestyle.
Relaxation music, new age music, romantic music and mediation music
are most helpful in reducing stress.
Yoga
Stretching your
limbs relieves tension and keeps the body supple and responsive.
It also helps develop the ability to sit quietly while feeling a
sense of aliveness and comfort.
Writing
Many mental health
professionals, both conventional and alternative, suggest that their
clients keep a journal. When it is difficult to communicate your
feelings with a friend or partner, it often helps to write it down.
The act of writing private thoughts and feelings alleviates stress
and provides clarity for problem solving. It also helps to remove
the negatively charged emotions from your body.
Nature
There is nothing
more therapeutic than a blue sky, a serene lake or a tree covered
mountain. Nature is a great rejuvenator and it also calms our psyche.
Do something outdoors and take advantage of our natural surroundings.
Laugh!
Laughing provides
a great release and is known to contribute to a healthier, less
stressful and longer life. It is a wonderful stress reducer and
should be practiced at every available opportunity.
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