Watch out for stress
By Angela Fields
Many people think of stress as something that comes from the outside. But stress is actually defined as the way you respond physically and emotionally to change and to challenging situations. There is good stress that comes with the excitement of good news and negative stress when you hear unpleasant and or shocking news money problems and health concerns to name a few.
Learning how to handle stress is beneficial to your overall sense of well-being.
Taking control over your life is helpful when trying to combat feeling stressed. At times, this is easier said than done. The following are some tips on handling stress are provided and printed with permission by Longview Employee Services and Health Association:
Believe in your ability to cope embrace your strengths.
Learn relaxation exercises deep breathing, a walk, and exercise.
Get a grip on guilt Guilt robs you of your energy and motivation. It is neither possible nor desirable to try to be perfect.
Talk to a friend Talking your problem out with a trusted friend can help solve it.
Develop leisure activities Learn to play a musical instrument, join a community center, and learn a new craft.
Establish a regular exercise routine - Stress produces chemicals that make you feel tense. Exercise moves these chemicals through your body.
Get plenty of rest Most people need seven or eight hours of sleep a night to feel refreshed.
Eat a balanced diet - Stock up on bread, cereal, rice and pasta. Include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
Improve Your Communication Skills Lean to ask for help when you need it.
Learn to accept and adapt to change Change is a fact of life. Life changes are common. Take time to recover, refocus and regenerate during a major change in your life.
Angela Fields is the Supervisor of Volunteer Services and the Money
Management Program Manager for Elder Services .
