Stress is defined as a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances. If you’re reading this, you’re thinking, “Duh!” So, how is it that we stress ourselves …
Healthy vs. Unhealthy Stress
Healthy stress is short term—for example, a deadline at work or school. Once healthy stress passes you feel relieved and often times a little euphoric.
Unhealthy stress begins to wear on you. You may feel chronically fatigued, lose interest in things that previously gave you pleasure. You may have physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches or other pains. And my personal go to when stressed out…irritability.
Anytime you are having physical symptoms that don’t resolve within a reasonable amount of time (week to ten days), make sure you see your doctor to rule out medication issues or other ailments. Talk to your doctor about suspecting it could be stress. If you both agree your symptoms are stress related, consider adopting one of the following 10 healthy habits recommended by the American Heart Association:
1. Talk with family and friends.
2. Engage in daily physical activity.
3. Embrace the things you are able to change.
4. Remember to laugh.
5. Give up the bad habits.
6. Slow down.
7. Get enough sleep.
8. Get organized.
9. Practice giving back.
10. Try not to worry.
I already sense you are stressing out over this list of ten. Just choose one. One of the ways we stress ourselves out is looking at EVERYTHING we need to accomplish at the same time. That’s a recipe for overwhelm. For me, getting organized is calming and makes me feel accomplished. Tonight I think my pantry is going to get a makeover! Namaste!
