Erase Your Stress

Research suggests that as much as 60-90% of illness is directly caused by or exacerbated by stress.

Stress is related to many major illnesses including cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.  Stress can effect your health in many ways, below are some of the common symptoms of stress.

On Your Body

• Headache
• Muscle tension or pain
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Stomach upset
• Sleep problems

On Your Mood

• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Confusion
• Lack of motivation or focus
• Irritability or anger
• Sadness or depression

On Your Behavior

• Nervousness
• Overeating or under eating
• Angry outbursts
• Alcohol or Drug abuse
• Tobacco use
• Social withdrawal

It's time to start minimizing and erasing your stress, leading to a healthier and happier life.  Here are 10 simple things you can do on a daily basis to reduce the symptoms of stress:

• Take a walk outside for 20 minutes.
• Do 10 shoulder shrugs when you are tense.
• Take the stairs whenever possible.
• Take 10 deep belly breaths every hour.
• Drink plenty of pure water.
• Avoid sugar and caffine in all forms.
• Make quiet time to clear you mind.
• Eat better, a good diet can help you body deal better with the effects of stress.
• Regulate sleep and wake cycles to a consistent daily routine.
• Prioitize your life, work, family, personal time and activities.

A good stree-relief program can include various forms of yoga, meditation, massage, qigong, exercise, accupressure and bio-feedback.  Engaging in a program that fits your style will go a long way in adding years to your life.