Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Taking Care of Your Emotional Health

In 2008, stress became the number one cause of deaths in the United States. Actually it wasn’t but it does cause a massive increase in that stubborn belly fat. Which brings me to my question. With the overwhelming amount of stress in our lives today, what are you doing to relax?

Stress is commonplace and over abundant with many Americans. Busy schedules, feeling the strain of the disastrous economic financial crunch, less time with family and friends and working nonstop is taking its toll on us all. Most of us desire to be productive individuals. And with the job market the way it is, we are willing to spend additional time committing to work related projects. We desperately watch every penny that comes in and try to save what little we can while scraping by. Fluctuating grocery prices, rising medical costs, steep childcare expenses and even with the volatile rise and decline of gas prices, it is enough to drive us all crazy. And realistically it makes us lose hope. So what can we do to alleviate some of the stress?

Consider spending some time with yourself for starters. Do some of those things that you enjoy. Health professionals recommend meditation, yoga, massage, and exercise to help cope with stress. Couples plan dates together. Enjoy a night out away from the children with your spouse. Rekindle that flame and delight in each other’s company. Experiencing the arts is also a great way to relieve stress. Creative expression brings a positive spin into a stagnant routine. Play your favorite instrument or perhaps spend time learning one. Go hear your favorite band performing at a local venue. Paint a masterpiece. Read a new novel or an old classic or write your own form of verse. If the price of gas isn’t too cost prohibitive go for a cruise. Put the top down on the convertible and take the family for a scenic drive. Fire up your motorcycle and enjoy the freedom of the open road. Go sailing on your boat. Fish or camp with your family and friends. Deepen your spiritual growth. Volunteer to help others. Creative your own adventure and plan time to enjoy life.

Individuals that practice effective stress management show signs of fewer physical symptoms, such as headaches and back pain. They lower blood pressure. Fewer emotional responses, such as anxiety, anger and frustration are attributed to gaining a personal peace. More energy, improved concentration, greater ability to handle problems and more efficiency in daily activities are also byproducts of controlling tensions. And if you are feeling better about yourself, you tend to exude a confidence that strengthens your relationships with others.

Don’t let stress get you down. You don’t have to spend money necessarily to relieve stress. But it is important to make sure that your own health is a concern and controlling stress benefits you greatly.

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