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Importance of Managing Stress

There are many ways people try to manage their stress. Meditation, social support, such as family and counseling, and even exercise can help reduce stress and its effects. Stress can wreak havoc on the human body, causing physical and mental illnesses. Many people suffer from stress at some time in their life.

  1. Causes of Stress

    • Stress is caused by a personal reaction to something that happens in life, according to biologist and author Robert M. Sapolsky in his book, " Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers." Each person who feels the effects of stress has different reactions. Some people would not get stressed about losing their job, while for others, the stress may cause their blood pressure to go up. People stress over life, work, family and even the weather. There is just no way to avoid stress.

    Effects of Stress

    • It is important to manage stress because unmanaged stress can cause high blood pressure. It can affect the metabolism, cause mental problems and can even cause stomach problems. People who live too long in a stressful state can die from the effects of stress, according to Sapolsky. Stress causes cortisol levels to rise, which cause fat around the middle. Stress can lead to insomnia, depression and anger issues.

    Managing Stress

    • The best way to begin managing stress is to learn how to relax and how to react differently to the things that cause stress. If stress is just a personal reaction to something, then altering that reaction can alter stress. Relaxation, according to the book "Complete Guide To Pilates, Yoga, Meditation & Stress Relief," published by Parragon Inc., can counter the effects of stress by lowering blood pressure, reducing tension and slowing breathing down. Learning to react differently to stressors also can have this effect.

    Stress Management Techniques

    • Massage can be used to relieve stress and the tension it causes in the muscles. Yoga also is a stress reliever and helps keep the body in good shape. Meditation as stress relief can clear the mind and helps keep the body from suffering from other problems, such as anxiety, depression and insomnia. Other forms of alternative stress management include hypnotherapy, biofeedback, visualization, music therapy and acupuncture.

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