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Monday, July 14, 2014

The effects of STRESS on the body

Written by Margot Cioccio

We all know that stress does bad things to us if it is not managed. Sometimes we don't realize that we are stressed. We might think we have it handled. Here are some of the signs and symptoms of stress on the body.  You may not even realize that stress is behind many of the common problems you may be facing.

  • Headache
  • Muscle tension or pain 
  • Chest pain
  • Memory Problems 
  • Fatigue
  • Change in sex drive
  • Stomach upset
  • Sleep problems  
I found this great graphic that goes in to a lot more detail. They call stress a proxy killer and say it is linked to 60 diseases. Yikes. 

My Self Care Wellness Activity: Check your stress level by taking this free online stress test from the Stress Management Society. http://www.stress.org.uk/stresstest.aspx
They suggest doing one of the following to help alleviate stress. Post in comments what you did.
I would add get a massage and you can probably think of other ideas as well.

  • Watch a sunset
  • Go to the beach
  • Be positive
  • Sing a song
  • Pet a dog
  • Tell a joke
  • Listen to music
  • Blow bubbles
  • Take a nap
  • Dance a jig
  • Take a walk
  • Write a letter
  • Have a cup of tea
  • Ask for help
  • Smile
  • Take a break
  • Do it now!
  • Stretch
  • Keep a journal
  • Hum a tune
  • Practice patience
  • Get up early
  • Meditate
  • Do Tai Chi
  • Play a drum
  • Prioritize
  • Give a hug
  • Throw a ball
  • Play with a child
  • See a movie
  • Plant a flower
  • Say "No"
  • Set Limits
  • Eat a snack
  • Read a book
  • Practice kindness
  • Light a candle
  • Laugh out loud
  • Lie in the sun
  • Walk in the rain
  • Run in the park
  • Talk to a friend
  • Take a bubble bath
  • Avoid negative people
  • Take a deep breath
  • Ask for what you need
  • Go to bed on time
  • Walk a labyrinth
  • Give a compliment
  • Clean a closet
  • Go barefoot
  • Give a blessing
  • Watch a sunrise
  • Say a prayer

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