If you have ever felt that you cannot take it anymore and that you are going to have a nervous breakdown, you are not alone. Stress is a common factor today in the lives of millions of people. Both men and women are equally affected by stress and not many are aware of how to deal with it. This is where stress counselling can help a great deal.
Consequences of Stress
The strain of everyday living has been linked to a host of ailments including high blood pressure, heart disease, headaches, back pain, cancer, diabetes, and a weak immune system. Individuals who suffer from stress also experience depression, insomnia, anxiety, and fatigue, and may turn to unhealthy habits such as overeating, smoking, drug abuse, or drinking to help deal with their stress.
How to Reduce Stress
Here are some effective tips to reduce stress and its negative effects on the body.
Good diet – The food we eat everyday plays a major role in maintaining our energy levels. Having low amounts of some minerals such as magnesium can make you feel tired. A well-balanced, nourishing diet can help maintain high energy levels. Stay away from caffeine and alcohol that contribute to the toxic effects of stress.
Sleep – Sleep is when your body recovers from the day’s stresses and rejuvenates itself. Good sleep habits such as going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, no T.V just before sleeping can really help improve the quality of your rest. Soaking your feet in warm water before bedtime can calm the mind and help sleep better.
Exercise – A daily regimen of exercise has been shown to work wonders in stress management. It is also excellent for overall health. You can break the pattern of anxiety ridden, worrisome thoughts through exercise. It also releases feel good endorphins. Studies have shown that physical activity can help improve mental health and enable one to cope with stress better. Also, people who exercise regularly are less likely to suffer from any kind of anxiety disorders as per some research.
Meditation – Yoga, breathing techniques and meditation have proven health benefits and are excellent ways of reducing stress. They calm the nerves and mind and can significantly lower your stress levels. Spend at least 20 minutes every day with yourself to see a profound change within a few days.
If you find yourself ill-equipped to deal with stress, stress counselling can be a good way to find effective support and solutions.
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