Stress is normal – we all experience it from time to time. But it’s different for each person, and there can be a fine line between regular stress and too much stress.

Stress is inevitable – we all experience it from time to time. Every person experiences stress in different ways. However, little stress does not bring so much ill effects on our body, but too much takes a toll on our body and mind.

Managing stress is therefore very important to keep you healthy and peaceful. Otherwise it might cause some serious health issues.

Managing stress begins with understanding it

Stress is the body’s natural reaction to change, triggered by physical, mental, or emotional pressures like illness, family troubles, or financial strain. Believe it or not, not all stress is bad. It’s a built-in survival mechanism—when faced with a challenge, our brain signals a release of stress hormones that sharpen focus, boost energy, thus enhancing alertness, helping us respond swiftly and effectively.

However, too much stress can have a serious impact on both our body and mind. It may increase the risk of illness, worsen specific symptoms and diseases or it may also affect our overall enjoyment of life.

As such, managing stress is very important to keep you healthy and peaceful.

In this blog, we’ll go through a few common causes of stress and how stress can impact our body and mental health. Besides, some stress management techniques would also be discussed to keep you healthy and happy.

Common causes of stress

Stress is caused for many reasons. Let’s discuss some common causes of stress that include:

• Financial Strain
• Work Pressures
• Unemployment
• Major life changes, like marriage, divorce or retirement
• Death of a family member or friend
• Health Problems
• Unhealthy Lifestyle

Common symptoms of stress

Stress can affect anyone at any time. Stress can impact us mentally and physically. So, it’s necessary to understand some common symptoms of stress so as to manage it properly.

Ways stress can affect the body

• Headaches
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
• Insomnia
• Weight gain or weight loss
• Dry mouth
• Excessive sweating
• Fatigue or weakness
• Diarrhoea or constipation

Simple ways to manage stress

So, what are the ways to manage stress that would bring relief to our body and mind? Coping with stress and managing it can be somewhat of a skill – we need to practice it sincerely and see that might work best for us.

These simple adjustments can bring a positive effect on our lifestyle that may help manage stress.

Exercise regularly

Staying active can do a lot for the body in terms of stress management. Studies suggest exercise or physical activity increases production of neurotransmitters in the brain, which help us feel more relaxed. And t the same time it can also decrease stress hormone levels like cortisol and adrenaline.

A simple 30-minute walk a few times a week can help us feel more energized and improve our mood.

A healthy diet can reduce stress

Eating healthy can help boost our immunity and lower blood pressure. Eating well also helps improve our mood. Eat whole grains, leafy vegetables, fruits, and avoid salt, sugar and processed food to stay healthy and stress free.

Get enough sleep

According to research, persons who experience less sleep are more likely to feel sluggish, disoriented, irritable or depressed and are affected by stress, more.

A healthy sleep comprising 8 to 9 hours daily ensures a healthy and stress free life. Avoid coffee, tea, watching T.V. or mobile before going to sleep at night.

Practice meditation to reduce stress

Meditation, deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, yoga are found to be beneficial when dealing with stress. These activities are based in the practice of mindfulness, which help to distance us from stressful thoughts so we can enjoy our life happily and remain stress free.

Avoid too much alcohol and caffeine

Too much alcohol and caffeine can adversely affect our moods and the quality of our sleep. Studies suggest that caffeine triggers stress and anxiety and alcohol can increase levels of depression.

Staying connected can help manage stress

Social interaction is a key component of good mental health. Staying connected helps lessen feelings of isolation and decrease the effects of stress, and can give us a feeling of purpose and fulfilment. Spending time with our close and loved ones help reduce the tension and stress.

Conclusion

Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Stress management is an important aspect for both your mental health and overall health, and it’s perfectly okay to need a little help. If you need support with managing stress levels, book an appointment with your doctor or get in touch with us. Together we can determine next steps and what kind of care will work best for you.

Disclaimer

Though all attempts are made to provide correct information on the subject, inadvertent & typographical errors arising out of manual intervention cannot be ruled out. It is requested to bring any such discrepancies to the notice of the blogger for correction.

Note: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise, or health regimen. The authors and publishers of this blog are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use or application of any information presented herein.