STRESS MAY BE CONTAGIOUS
-Many people frequently use terms such as “I’m stressed out, I’m burned out, I’m fried!” For some, these cries of discontent, even if valid, are attention getters, but do not yield solutions to the real problem which may require behavior modification.
-It is hard for us not to be drawn into other’s stress. Our research has found that allowing people to recall a very stressful time in your life that you would rather forget, can shut down your immune function for up to 7 hours opening the door to any number of illnesses.
MAKE SURE STRESS ISN’T A BADGE OF HONOR
-Having a new crisis to survive, like a battle worn soldier, can be a dangerous way of keeping the stress-ball in the air by telling yourself and others, “I can handle this!” Over a period of time this can break you down.
-By the time the symptoms of stress are evident, your immune system is already at risk for other health problems.
STRESS RELEASES CORTISOL
-Cortisol is a stress related hormone, which is released into your bloodstream during the fight or flight reactions to stress. It can seriously suppress immune function.
CORTISOL DEFENSE IN ON THE WAY
Here is a lovely way to deal with stress no matter how physically or mentally tired you are. And its effects can be felt immediately. Studies show that the release of the body’s natural relaxant and pain reliever is oxytocin, which destroys the damaging effects of cortisol.
THE HEART-LOCK METHOD
Secure a quiet spot where you won’t be disturbed by others or noisy pets. In a relaxed position place both palms of your hands over your heart. Don’t worry about your breathing. It will find its own relaxed rhythm. Allow your mind to drift into very pleasant memories or tell yourself a wonderful, happy story where you feel well. Give yourself the time to perform this for 8 minutes, which is how long it takes for the oxytocin to be released. Some studies have shown that during this simple practice, blood oxygen improves, brain serotonin is released, and more collagen is manufactured to really start to combat the effects of stress.
More next month with Part 5 of our stress management series, so stay tuned.
The experts at Quick-Seat Chair are proud to have been able to provide the Being Successful & Stressed program to Patuxent River Naval Base, Fleet & Family Services to help their staff and military personnel and their families.
Quick-Seat Chair. Temporary Seating That Closes Itself.