Did you know that stress is actually an important part of human evolution, and it helped our ancestor survive? The release of adrenaline brought about by an impending attack from a large carnivorous animal, for example, helped our ancestor prepare for fight or flight, and this kind of stress still benefit us today. But the Modern World has brought about continuous stressors our bodies weren’t made to respond to.

Types of Stress

1. Acute Stress –

It is short – term stress brought about by specific events you must react to. It can be helpful, motivational force and it can be thrilling in small doses (eustress), but too much is exhausting (distress). For example, riding a Roller Coaster, taking a test, dodging a car accident, asking for a raise etc.

2. Chronic Stress –

It is long – term distress caused by repeated stressor. Chronic stress can become such a routine part of life that sufferers stop noticing it and accept it as normal. For example, an overly demanding job, an unhappy home life, prolonged financial problems, difficulty in school etc.

Chronic Stress is more dangerous than Acute Stress.

The Effects of Chronic Stress

Without any relief or relaxation, can lead to –

1. Headaches
2. Upset Stomach
3. Chest Pains
4. Increased Blood Pressure
5. Sleep Loss

Risk Factor of Stress

1. Heart Disease by 40%
2. Heart Attack by 25%
3. Stroke by 50%
4. Changes in Digestion
5. Increased Heart Beating Rates
6. Increased Blood Sugar Level
7. Increased (Exhale) Breath Rate

The Relaxation Response –

It is a state of deep rest designed to change your physical and emotional responses to stress. Benefits of Relaxation are –

1. Lowers Blood Pressure
2. Slow your Breathing Rate
3. Increases Blood Flow to muscles
4. Boosts Memory
5. Boosts Confidence
6. Reduces Muscles Tension
7. Improves Mood and Concentration
8. Reduces Fatigue

Methods to De-Stress –

1. Meditation – elicits the relaxation response and strengthens your mind against stress.
2. Deep Breathing – slows heart rate and lowers blood pressure.
3. Decompress and reduce muscle tension
4. Get active
5. Hearty Laughter
6. Be grateful

Food that Reduces Stress

1. Blueberries
2. Nuts & Seeds
3. Turkey
4. Leafy Greens
5. Avocado
6. Lemon Balm Tea
7. Salmon
8. Dark Chocolate
9. Oranges
10. Sweet Potatoes