Well heck..... I'm feeling better. Thank the heavens!!! After taking some time away from work my body began to piece itself back together. It has been ruff transitioning, but it could always be worse. In this short period of time I gained much wisdom. For starters I'm learning to deal with and manage day-to-day stress. This world is full of things that will have us stressed to the max if we allow it.
Recently, I learned that when you stress there are certain hormones that are released or increase in levels. Originally our reaction to stress was meant to protect us, 'flight or fight', but when stress becomes a constant state it can create havoc in the body. When you stress your body's alarm goes off and your body goes into protective mode. In this mode your heart begins to race, which increases blood pressure, and energy levels. Although those are all great things what also happens is all the rest of your bodily functions get put on the back burner. So, your immune system gets compromised, your digestive system, reproductive system, and growth system are all suppressed . Basically, all the energy gets focused on trying to protect you in this moment of stress. This would not be so terrible if we did not stay in this mode constantly. Even after the stressor is gone we have a tendency to hold on to and drag out the event that initiated the stress response. It is very important to learn to manage the stress in your life.
One way to start is by identifying the source of stress in your life. Be careful not to dismiss temporary/situational stress or define stress as 'just' a part of life. Try not to place responsibility on people and outside events. Remember that 'you' only have control over what 'you' choose to do. You have to take the responsibility in how you play a role in creating and managing your stress.
Secondly, it's important to find healthy ways to cope with your stress. Start by finding how you cope with stress now. Do you have unhealthy ways of coping with stress like: smoking, over-indulge in alcohol, over/under eat, use narcotics to relax/sleep, zone out in front of tv/comp, take it out on others, or avoid friends, family, & activities. The two main ways to cope with stress are change the situation (Avoid/Alter the stressor) and change your reaction (Adapt to/Accept the stressor). I know sometimes the ones closest to you are the source of your stress, and in this case you need to accept them for who they are. Remember you only have control over you and your actions.
If you want to develop a healthier way of coping with stress, you should adopt a healthier lifestyle (exercise, healthier diet, etc...). Also, you want to make time for fun and relaxation. Be sure to take&make time for enjoying your life, friends, and family. It is okay to say no, and if your friends, family, and coworkers cannot understand then they are not real friends or do not care about your well being.
Well, I hope this has been helpful for someone! Come back soon.
Here are a few links to resources for stress management: Stress free, Have fun, Enjoy life
