Stress Management

A Few Words About Stress

Stress is the body’s way of responding to any type of demand, pressure or threat from the outside world. Outside of physical exertion or environmental stressors, stress is largely based on perception. Stress is also a very individual thing; something that is stressful to one person is not necessarily stressful to another.

When in stress mode (also called fight or flight) the body produces a number of chemicals, including adrenaline & cortisol, that are helpful in the short-term. When stress becomes chronic and continues without relief, these same chemicals and the results they produce in the body can become harmful. One of the major concerns with prolonged stress is its negative impact on the immune system. Therefore, learning to relax is critical in maintaining good health.

Relaxation reduces stress thus allowing the body to return to the calm, healing parasympathetic mode. A key concept in stress management that helps us remain longer in this parasympathetic mode is that of mindfulness. Mindfulness means choosing to live fully in the present moment without regretting the past or worrying about the future. Relaxation Therapy teaches us how to be more mindful, and thus more happy and relaxed, in our daily lives.

Stress Management/Relaxation Articles by Terri Marshall

Stress Relief Resources

Not sure if stress is becoming a problem in your life? Try these self-check assessments:
http://tranquilitybaywellness.com/stress-relief-resources

Interesting Stress Statistics

(Source: Miller, Smith & Rothstein Unless Otherwise Noted)

  • 84% of Women Currently are Stressed About the Economy, Source: USA Today
  • 43% of Adults Experience Adverse Health Effects from Stress
  • 75-90% of Visits to a Physician are for Stress Related Complaints
  • Stress in the Workplace Costs American Industry $300 Billion Annually!
  • OSHA Has Declared Stress a Hazard of the Workplace